Despite an eight game losing streak at the start of regular season play, the boys soccer team arrived at Uihlein for the state-qualifying match against Deforest High School on Nov. 11.

Colin Yorulmazoglu, senior, who has played on the team for two years explained how the team dynamic shifted from being significantly upperclassman the prior season to underclassman this season.

“When I played last year, there [were] just a lot of seniors, but with all the new freshmen and sophomores on this team, it was kinda nice to play with a younger group,” Yormuzoglu said.

This season was full of new challenges and opportunities for head coach Mr. Tony Navarre, who is in his 20th season of coaching boys soccer and 7th season as the head coach. Navarre felt a shift in the young team’s connection after their win at Aurora Catholic Central.

“It was a nice long bus trip and the guys really got to hangout and it was a nice win. I really felt like the team gelled a little bit after that game,” Navarre said.

The continuous growth of the players was due to the connection and trust they had for one another. As the season continued, they began to understand each other’s strengths and weaknesses and learned how to support one another on and off the field.

Lauren Faucett, junior, is a fan of the soccer team and attended games throughout the season. Before earning their place in the state tournament, Homestead had to defeat West Bend West. This was a pivotal moment for the boys as they won the game 1 to 0.

“It was really exciting and they played really good,” Faucett said.

The state tournament quickly approached as the playoffs came to a close. Their final game at state was close, ending with a 1-2 loss, Deforest High School taking the win. To conclude the season, seniors shared final words of encouragement to the younger players.

“Just believe and keep the hard work because if you just work for something, you’re eventually going to be able to achieve it,” said Yormuzoglu.