Season Outlook
Camdenton High School soccer is entering the new campaign with a focus on its senior class, which returns seven starters from a 14‑12 record the previous year. The coaching staff believes that the blend of experience and offseason development positions the team to compete aggressively from the outset.
At the forefront of the attack is forward Christian Portillo, who burst onto the scene with 15 goals and seven assists as a junior and now enters his senior year as the team’s primary scoring threat. His ability to find space and finish with both feet makes him a central piece of the offense.
Complementing Portillo are fellow front‑line contributors Maddux Gulledge and Eli Meacher, while sophomore Chase Benedick adds versatility in midfield, having recorded four goals and six assists last season. Midfield playmaker Jace Armstrong, who tallied six goals and 13 assists a year ago, will continue to orchestrate the team’s tempo and create chances for the forwards.
The midfield also welcomes back Logan Figgins, whose tenacity and box‑to‑box work rate were highlighted by coaches as a key factor in maintaining possession and supporting both defense and attack. Alongside him, Brayson Manning and Colton Howe anchor a defensive line that has added depth with Ronan Nielsen and Matthew Murphree, providing stability after a knee setback for Howe early in the season.
Between the posts, seniors Brendan Lisewski and Ezekiel Carter split duties, each bringing years of experience from their sophomore campaigns onward. Their familiarity with the defensive scheme and ability to command the penalty area are expected to tighten the backline.
Coach Tyler Sevon emphasized that every player has refined their skills through dedicated offseason training and club participation, noting that the squad’s speed, physicality, and technical proficiency have all progressed. He outlined a game plan that seeks to overwhelm opponents with a relentless frontline and a high‑tempo style of play.
Key Players to Watch
Among the standout names are Christian Portillo, Jace Armstrong, and Brayson Manning, each poised to influence the team’s fortunes. The opening match against Waynesville on August 28 will serve as the first test of the team’s chemistry and the effectiveness of its new tactical approach.