At Hanover High School in New Hampshire, the annual Lions Twin State Soccer Cup will bring together the state's most promising boys' teams for a showcase match that doubles as a fundraiser for the Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation. The event, which draws players, families and community supporters, pits New Hampshire's elite squad against Vermont's best, with proceeds earmarked for vision and hearing programs across the region.
At the helm of New Hampshire's side is Couper Gunn, the Division III 2025 Coach of the Year, whose recent accolades have placed him among the most respected tacticians in high school soccer. Gunn has said he will use the contest to test new strategic concepts while instilling confidence in a roster brimming with talent.
A Friendly Rivalry Rekindled
The match will also feature a personal storyline, as Gunn takes the sideline opposite his longtime friend Jake Walker, who coaches the Vermont squad. Both mentors previously worked together at Lightning Soccer Club, where they honed many of the principles now on display. Their collaboration and competition add an extra layer of intrigue to the proceedings.
Among the New Hampshire players selected for the contest are Grady Burch, Charlotte Larochelle, Bella Lapierre, Sadie Scruton, Finan Murphy, Brady Colgan, Ciaran Duffy and Drou Goff, each of whom earned a spot through standout performances during the season. Their participation underscores the depth of talent in the Granite State and highlights the event's role as a springboard for future collegiate careers.
The Lions Twin State Soccer Cup is more than a showcase; it is a charitable initiative that supports the Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation, an organization dedicated to preventing preventable vision loss and hearing impairment. Funds raised during the day will go directly toward screenings, assistive devices and community outreach programs that benefit families throughout New England.
Gunn's philosophy for the game reflects a broader, almost international perspective, emphasizing general principles over hyper‑specific tactics. He believes that fostering confidence and team cohesion will translate into stronger performances on the field, a strategy that mirrors the approach taken by many top‑level coaches worldwide.
Historically, New Hampshire holds a slight edge over Vermont in previous Cup meetings, a fact that adds a subtle narrative of redemption for the Green Mountain State. Yet both coaches agree that the true victory lies in the spirit of competition and the cause they are championing.