The new Illinois high school boys soccer campaign kicks off on August 24, ushering in a fresh wave of talent across the Peoria region. With regionals slated for mid‑October and the state finals set for early November, coaches and fans alike are already marking their calendars for a season that promises both drama and breakthrough performances.
Among the names generating the most buzz are Cal Byrkit of Peoria Notre Dame, Max Schmidt of the same squad, and Jackson Orris from Dunlap, each of whom earned all‑state recognition last year. Their recent statistics illustrate why they are considered the focal points of this year’s storylines.
Byrkit, a senior midfielder, tallied 12 goals and five assists in 2025, earning unanimous first‑team all‑Big 12 honors and a spot on the all‑sectional roster. His blend of vision and work rate has made him a central figure in the team’s offensive schemes.
Between the posts, Max Schmidt posted eight shutouts and maintained a 0.95 goals‑against average, drawing unanimous first‑team all‑Big 12 selection and IHSSCA all‑sectional accolades. His composure under pressure has stabilized a defense that has been a cornerstone of the team’s recent success.
Key offensive performers
Jackson Orris, a senior forward from Dunlap, exploded for 33 goals and added 11 assists, guiding his side to the Class 2A Sweet Sixteen and earning all‑Mid‑Illini and IHSSCA all‑state honors. His ability to find the net in clutch moments has drawn comparisons to past regional legends.
Defensive anchors and breakout defenders
The defensive backbone also features standout performances from Caleb Engle of Morton, who helped his team record 11 shutouts and allow just one goal or fewer on 19 occasions, and Paddy Graham of Peoria Notre Dame, whose four goals and two assists complemented a backline that surrendered only 21 goals all season. Tyler Ho, a versatile midfielder from Peoria Notre Dame, added crucial defensive transitions, while Jack Miller, a forward from Washington, provided additional attacking depth. Truman Lenover, a senior defender from Washington, was instrumental in his team’s run to the Class 2A state runner‑up finish, contributing to a season that included 22 shutouts. Emerging talent includes Dayne Klopfenstein, a junior midfielder from Morton who broke out with 14 goals and three assists, winning 15 matches and securing all‑Mid‑Illini and IHSSCA all‑sectional recognition as an underclassman. Likewise, sophomore goalkeeper Oliver Wettstein of Washington posted 22 shutouts in his debut varsity season, a feat that placed him among only ten freshmen selected for the all‑sectional team.
Johnny Navetta, a junior midfielder from Peoria Notre Dame, will look to build on a promising campaign after the graduation of center‑back Declan Schuler, who contributed 21 goals and 25 assists. Navetta’s offensive development will be a key storyline for the team.
Postseason schedule
The postseason schedule adds further intrigue. Regionals will run from October 16 through 24, culminating in the state finals at Guilford High School in Rockford from November 5 to 7. The venue, located in the heart of the state, is expected to draw large crowds as the top teams converge for the championship.
With a blend of seasoned seniors and rising underclassmen, the Peoria area’s boys soccer scene is poised to deliver a compelling narrative as the 2026 season unfolds.