The 2026 season will be remembered as one of the most competitive in Central Texas boys soccer history. From Vandegrift to LASA, Westlake to Hendrickson, schools across the region fielded talent that not only excelled individually but also propelled their squads to deep playoff runs and coveted district championships.
Player of the Year and Offensive Prowess
Luke Hawley of Vandegrift earned the prestigious Player of the Year honor after a sensational campaign that saw him net 20 goals and add 10 assists. Close behind, Kiran Kini from LASA dominated as Attacker of the Year, compiling 32 goals and 14 assists for a total of 46 goal contributions that underscored his relentless attacking instincts.
Ryder Atwood, also from Vandegrift, was recognized as Defensive Player of the Year, a testament to his dual threat of nine goals and four assists from the back line. Meanwhile, Mateo Gorman of Westlake burst onto the scene as Newcomer of the Year, delivering 24 goals and four assists that helped reshape expectations for fresh talent.
Defensive Mastery and Midfield Orchestration
The defensive backbone of the season featured standout performances from Jack Andre of Bowie, who claimed District 26‑6A Defender of the Year, and Griffin Donnelly from Lake Travis, whose commanding presence at center back paced a talented backline. Midfield creativity flourished through players like Grant Teodecki of Vandegrift, who broke the school record for assists with 15, and Lucas Thomaz of LASA, whose quick, intelligent passing became the engine of the Raptors' success.
Coaching Impact and Team Triumphs
Emmanuel Gonzalez of LASA was named Coach of the Year, guiding the Raptors to a District 24‑5A title and a Class 5A Division II semifinal berth. Under his leadership, the team finished the season with an impressive 18‑5‑2 record. Similarly, the Westlake Chaparrals captured District 26‑6A with a 20‑2‑3 record, while the Vandegrift Vipers advanced to the state semifinals for the third straight year, finishing 18‑5‑4.
Other notable contributors included Kaz Seyhoon of Westwood, who tallied 17 goals and five assists before committing to Division I soccer at Lafayette College, and Michael Velasquez from Del Valle, whose 12 goals and seven assists helped the Cardinals reach the second round of the Class 6A Division I playoffs. Borys Siwczak of Round Rock earned District 25‑6A Midfielder of the Year honors, anchoring a midfield that posted a 16‑4‑4 record.
Shutouts, Leadership and Community Impact
Shepherd Nevelle of Westlake recorded 12 shutouts while allowing just 11 goals throughout the regular season, a performance that helped the team maintain a stingy defense. Carlos Tolentino from Connally was named District 23‑5A Defensive MVP, leading a backline that surrendered only seven goals and logged six shutouts in district play. Grant Simmons of Rouse finished with 12 shutouts, 83 saves and steered the Raiders to a District 25‑5A title and an 18‑4‑3 season.
The collective achievements of these players and coaches not only highlighted individual excellence but also reinforced the depth of talent across Central Texas. Their stories will inspire the next generation of soccer players and cement the region’s reputation as a hotbed of high‑school soccer excellence.