A Season of Redemption
The Summit Storm boys soccer program has endured a bitter double‑dose of heartbreak in recent postseason play. In both the 2024 and 2025 state title matches, opponents struck the decisive blows from the penalty spot, turning what should have been triumphant evenings into lingering disappointment. The memory of those missed chances still fuels a quiet resolve within the locker room.
What has not faded, however, is the team’s defensive identity. A wall of experienced backs, anchored by juniors Jacob Jenkins and Laird Jessup between the posts, has allowed the Storm to concede just a single goal in IMC play during their most recent championship run. Veteran Max Pagano, along with a disciplined line of seniors, has turned the backfield into a fortress that opponents find difficult to breach.
At the heart of the attack, Quenton Swanston – the reigning IMC Player of the Year – brings a blend of creativity and tenacity that has become synonymous with Summit’s style. Alongside him, Will Newton adds pace and precision, while Coach Tom Bunnell continues to fine‑tune a system that maximizes the talent at his disposal.
A Familiar Foe Awaits
The Storm’s first test comes early, as they host Jesuit at Summit High School in a clash that has produced some of the most memorable moments in recent years. Since 2018 the two sides have met four times in the playoffs, with each encounter decided by penalty kicks. The 4‑2‑2 record in favor of Summit offers a glimmer of hope, but Jesuit’s own tactical evolution promises a fresh challenge.
Beyond the scoreboard, the team’s chemistry is a decisive factor. Roughly three‑quarters of the roster share a common club background, fostering an intuitive understanding that translates into fluid movement on the pitch. This cohesion, combined with a rigorous preseason schedule, positions the Storm to hit the ground running when the regular season begins.
Replacing three first‑team all‑IMC players, including midfield stalwarts Jack Mitchell and Jude Jarrett, will test the depth of the squad. Yet the experience of seniors like Max Pagano and the emerging talents of younger players suggest that the transition may be smoother than anticipated. The coaching staff remains confident that the lessons learned from past setbacks will translate into a stronger, more adaptable side.
As the Storm prepare to take the field, the excitement is palpable. The upcoming match against Jesuit is more than a season opener; it is a litmus test for a program that refuses to let past defeats define its future. With a fortified defense, a dynamic attack, and a unified spirit, Summit is poised to write a new chapter in its pursuit of the state title.