A Legacy Under Pressure
De La Salle Collegiate’s soccer program, long dominated by veteran coach Thaier Mukhtar, opened the season with a 4‑2 victory over Romeo on August 19, a win that reaffirms its status as the team to beat in Division 2.
The triumph was highlighted by Andrew Corder’s hat‑trick, pushing his career total to 74 goals and earning him a spot on the All‑State Dream Team and top billing for the Mr. Soccer award.
Corder’s Star Turn
Corder’s 74 career goals place him among the most prolific scorers in Michigan high school history, a milestone that has drawn praise from teammates and rivals alike.
Coach Mukhtar notes that the young forward’s work ethic and clutch performances have become a model for the entire roster, especially as the team prepares for a grueling schedule.
The Next Test
The Pilots will meet Novi Detroit Catholic Central on August 27 at 7 p.m., a matchup that pits the defending champions against a perennial powerhouse in the Bishop Division.
Beyond the scoreboard, Mukhtar emphasizes that managing the heightened expectations in Macomb County is as crucial as any tactical preparation, requiring the squad to stay grounded while chasing another title.
Veteran players such as Antonio Cardella and Brian Maisonneuve, both cited by Mukhtar as among the most dynamic offensive talents he has coached, add depth and experience to a lineup that looks poised to extend its dominance.