You Won't Believe What This All-Local Boys Soccer Team Just Achieved – Shocking Victory Details Inside!

The Monroe County high school boys soccer scene has witnessed an exhilarating season, highlighted by a state championship triumph for the Columbia Eagles and a regional title for the Waterloo Bulldogs. These achievements, coupled with numerous standout individual performances, have solidified the area's reputation in the sport.

This year, the Republic-Times presents the All-Local Boys Soccer Team for the 2025 season, recognizing the athletes who have not only showcased their skills on the field but also contributed significantly to their teams' successes.

First Team Highlights

Leading the charge is Luke Dewilde from Columbia, who had an outstanding season. He ranked second in the entire St. Louis area in scoring, racking up an impressive 99 points with 34 goals and 31 assists. His performance not only helped propel the Eagles to the state title, but also earned him a coveted spot on the Illinois High School Soccer Coaches Association (IHSSCA) All-State Team.

Goalkeeping is often the backbone of a successful soccer team, and Parker Lacroix from Waterloo exemplified this with his stellar performance. With a record of 16 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws, Lacroix boasted a goals against average of .4712, ranking third in the St. Louis area. His .894 save percentage placed him fifth, earning him an IHSSCA All-Sectional Honorable Mention.

Other notable first-team selections include Drew Hagedorn from Gibault, who led his team with three goals and four assists, earning IHSSCA All-Sectional recognition. Additionally, Elliot Nelson, also from Columbia, proved invaluable not only for his defensive skills but also with strategic throw-ins, finishing with three goals and 12 assists. He received IHSSCA All-Sectional accolades for his efforts.

Trent Glaenzer from Waterloo stood out as the Bulldogs' top scorer, contributing 15 goals and 10 assists for his team, which earned him IHSSCA All-Sectional honors. Owen Worcester from Columbia was another key player, ranking ninth in the St. Louis area with 24 goals and 18 assists, also earning all-conference selection.

The depth of talent continues with players like Robert Pierpoint from Gibault and Chanse Frierdich from Columbia, who provided solid performances in their respective roles, helping their teams achieve competitive success.

Second Team and Special Mentions

The second team also featured athletes who made significant contributions throughout the season. Among them, Eli Thebeau from Columbia showcased his skills as a goalkeeper, with a record of 13 wins, 4 losses, and 1 draw, and an impressive .884 save percentage.

Other all-conference selections included Ripken Voelker from Valmeyer, leading his team with nine goals, and Isaiah Mallery from Waterloo, who recorded seven goals and seven assists. The depth of talent from various schools illustrates the vibrant high school soccer landscape in Monroe County.

Special mentions include a number of players from Columbia, Waterloo, and Gibault, each recognized for their contributions on and off the field. This recognition underscores the commitment of these young athletes not only to the sport but to their teams and schools.

As the dust settles on the 2025 season, it’s evident that Monroe County's boys soccer programs have fostered a competitive environment that not only develops talented athletes but also cultivates teamwork, sportsmanship, and community pride. With the promising performances this season, the future looks bright for high school soccer in the region.