Central Mountain Boys Soccer Aims For District Playoffs in 2024
MILL HALL-The Central Mountain boys soccer team is gearing up for a competitive season, with an impressive 44 players vying for playing time under the guidance of head coach Billy Hook. The team is focused on returning to the district playoffs and making a strong push for a district title, despite the challenges ahead.
The team will rely heavily on its four returning starters—Isaiah Brinker, Lincoln Breon, Cole Cooper, and Griffin Confer—to set the tone early in the season. Senior Max Verrelli is stepping into a starting role, and other players like Alton Counsil, Dylan Bechdel, and Tim Brinker are expected to make significant contributions. With many starting spots open due to graduation losses, there are ample opportunities for players to step up and prove themselves.
Team chemistry is a strong point for this group, with players from freshmen to seniors enjoying their time together, creating a positive and cohesive environment. Coach Hook emphasizes the importance of leadership, and while it’s present in doses, identifying those who will step up consistently is a focus for the early weeks of the season.
Replacing the 26 goals lost to graduation and finding a new goalie after losing a 2nd Team All-Conference player are key concerns for the team. Coach Hook is still evaluating the best tactics moving forward to address these challenges.
The PHAC is always tough, with every league game demanding full focus. There are no easy games on the schedule, and contests against teams like Altoona are expected to be particularly challenging. Specific matches to watch include Mifflinburg on September 23rd, Williamsport, Selinsgrove, and the always anticipated rivalry game against Jersey Shore on October 7th, which will likely serve as Senior Night.
Coach Hook is supported by assistant coach Alex Terry, who returns for their seventh year together, and new assistant coach Seth Cooper. Brayden Brungard and Dalton Bechdel are back as junior high coaches, rounding out a solid coaching staff dedicated to helping the team reach its goals this season.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how the players respond to the challenges ahead, with the potential for some exciting and impactful performances.
