Climbing back from the 2021 Varsity Boys Soccer season that kept the Tigers out of the Friends Schools League playoffs, the 2022 squad posted a winning record and rose to a #2 rank in the FSL. Their journey to the FSL Championship and the PAISAA State Tournament was anchored in skill, grit, and leadership from the senior class. But, according to the captains, it was teamwork, above all, that propelled the Tigers back into the mix of top teams in the league and area. 

"We have a tradition of excellence in our soccer program, winning the championship two out of the past four seasons and making it to the finals again this year. I appreciate that the squad knows we can compete with any program as long as the team sticks together; the senior leadership and stellar teamwork were paramount to continuing a strong tradition!" Director of Athletics Katie Bergstrom Mark said. 

“The team exceeded expectations this year. We were more technically sound and driven than most other teams expected, even our coach was surprised. However, the main key to our success was our teamwork which made us the best team defensively in the Friends League,” said Isaac Okewole ‘23, a team captain (pictured above). 

“I think our team was so successful because we care about each other. It makes it a lot easier to sprint back to defend when you’re defending for people who you like. It’s easier when you know any of your teammates would do exactly the same,” added fellow captain Jacob Burnett ‘23 (pictured below). 

At the end of the regular season, the Tigers were ranked #3 and in playoffs and went on to upset #2 Westtown in penalty kicks after 100 minutes of play including two overtime periods. The Westtown win was the sixth consecutive and bumped the team to #2 in the league. The Tigers finished with a league record of 7-3. 

“The Westtown semifinal was the best moment of the season for me,” Okewole added. “Fighting so hard in overtime and winning in penalties is never easy. Yet, when that happens it is the best feeling in the world.”

There's no doubt that despite falling short of the FSL and State crowns, the Tigers would attest that their teamwork which marked the 2022 season – and the success it fostered – is a reward that surpasses any title.