A Night of Memories on the Pitch
On July 18, 2026, Hickman County High School opened its historic soccer field to a crowd of former players, families and community members for the first alumni match since Luke Istre assumed the role of head coach.
The contest was divided into two halves, each showcasing the skill of athletes spanning nearly three decades, from the class of 1999 through the graduating class of 2026. In a lively contest, the pinnies squad edged out the opposition 6‑3, a scoreline that sparked cheers from the assembled alumni.
Adding a ceremonial touch, senior student Jacari Ladd served as the honorary referee, symbolizing the bridge between the current roster and the program’s storied past.
Former coach Eric Istre, who guided the program from 1995 to 2005, attended the event and reflected on the evolution of soccer at Hickman County, noting how participation and competitiveness have expanded since the team’s inaugural season in 1989.
The gathering also featured a roll call of notable alumni, including Brian Powers, Chris Wright and a host of other former standouts such as Arend Heymans, Juan David Giraldo, Paul Dressler, Ian Springer, Faith Tanner, Alec Reed, Jared Brown, McKalan Dunn, Lane Carter, Levi Carter, Alexis Reed, Matthew Simpson, Crash Ruiz, Dylan O’Guin, Sam Brown, Aty Gordon, Sawyer Rhoden, Wyatt Aydelott, Joseph McCauley, Will Adcox, Edwin Wright, Emma Brashears, Izzy Barber, Mike Brown and others, underscoring the deep talent pool that has emerged from the school.
The night underscored the lasting impact of soccer at Hickman County High School, a program that has grown from its modest beginnings to a vibrant extracurricular staple.