Building Around Experience
The Oak Harbor boys soccer program finished the previous campaign with an 8-9-1 record, a season that was defined as much by injury as by effort. Forward Fulton Krupp’s untimely end cut a promising offensive option, but the team managed to rally around a core of seniors and a handful of standout underclassmen.
Head coach Grant LaPeer, now in his fifth year at the helm, has built his approach around consistency and a positive mentality. He stresses that every opponent deserves a tailored game plan, but the underlying message remains the same: the crew will compete hard and finish with energy.
Among the returning talent, Zavier Hess and Xavier Flower provide a potent attacking spark, while Billy Zunk returns as the undisputed starter in goal. Midfield playmakers Josh Monhollen and Aidan Boss will look to distribute the ball, and the senior leadership of Colton Spencer, along with juniors Liam Peters and Carter Hartman, is expected to fill the void left by departed stars such as Joey Judge and Owen Gradel.
Sophomore forward JT Antesberger adds depth up front, and the coaching staff believes the blend of experience and youthful vigor will keep the schedule competitive. LaPeer notes that no game will be taken for granted, but the team’s focus on winning and maintaining momentum should translate into a strong finish.