The Shady Side Academy boys soccer team is gearing up for another shot at the WPIAL Class 2A championship, a goal that has driven the program through a period of transition.
A New Chapter for the Bulldogs
A recent geographic realignment moved the Bulldogs into Section 3‑2A, stripping them of their longtime Deer Lakes rival and reshaping the competitive landscape.
Last season the squad posted a 12‑5‑1 record, highlighted by a 10‑3‑1 mark within the section, and reached the quarterfinals before falling to Quaker Valley in double overtime.
Key contributors returning include forward Zack Powers, midfielder Jack Morowitz, midfielder Liam McKim and goalkeeper Liam Cowan, who together helped the offense average 5.9 goals per game.
Coach Ed Ellsworth emphasizes that while the team will miss the Deer Lakes matchup, the experience of many players from Steel City FC will bring cohesion and tactical flexibility to the side.
Ellsworth says the Bulldogs will rely on new faces to fill gaps but will maintain the high standards and competitive edge that defined their recent success.