Written By: Brigitta Nelson and Audrey Steeves
The Providence Academy Boys’ Soccer season was one to remember. Through every goal, save, and hard-fought match, the players built not just an amazing season, but a community that will last long off the field.
“I think it was a big step up from last year. We had a couple more wins,” said captain Matty Schaffer, ‘27.
Matty Schaffer, ’27, defending the Lions’ goal. PAW Photo Credit: Michael Hub.
The team was built on younger players this year, including freshman forward Xavier Reetz. Reetz, a strong player in the offense, was one of the top goal scorers this season. Reetz contributed to the blend of upper and lower classmen, making their season not only successful, but very educational for future years.
Xavier Reetz, ’29, surpasses defender to attack the goal. PAW Photo Credit: Mark@allsportphotography.net
“Now that we’ve been playing with each other, I think we can start to read each other better. It’ll just keep continuing to get better next year,” said Schaffer.
All of the growth from this season leaves the boys excited and hopeful for future seasons. Captain Conner Nieson, ‘26, is especially excited to see how the team grows in the next season and to see his brother carry on his career on the pitch.
“I think there’s a lot from this year that everyone else is going to be able to build off of in the future years,” said Niesen.
Tactics on the field aren’t the only things the Lions worked on. There were countless off field pre-game rituals for the boys. Whether it’s a favorite snack before the game or a team prayer, the boys have it. Captain Matty Shaffer says that their favorite pre-game ritual is a team prayer before stepping foot on the field. Centering themselves with God before every game gives the boys a sense of peace and strength.
Connor Niesen, ’26, dribbles the ball upfield. PAW Photo Credit: Michael Hub.
“I always pray the Saint Michael prayer before the game starts in the huddle,” said Schaffer.
The boys found this year to be a building year. The team had a solid season, with a record of 7-10-1. They had a few big wins, notably their 3-1 win over three time defending state champions, St. Paul Academy.
“I think it’s something to build off of for future years. It was more successful than past years, and hopefully we can build off of that,” said captain Drew Munyon, ‘27.