Blacksburg seniors continue soccer dominance
BLACKSBURG, Va. — Since the mid 1980’s, Blacksburg High School soccer has been known throughout the state as a program that is difficult to defeat. Blacksburg Soccer has a rich history of undefeated seasons, district leaders, and state championships.
Last season, the Bruins went undefeated in their regular season, climbing to the state quarterfinal game against Loudoun County. Sometimes underestimated because of the rural location, Blacksburg has traveled to Northern Virginia for post season matches against schools in more urban settings. These footballers never feel intimidated though. Countless hours are spent watching films and discussing game strategy to prepare. Coach Shelley Blumenthal makes sure that each player understands his role and placement on the field. But these teammates have been playing together for so many years, they almost read each other’s minds as a play develops. They can compete with any opponent. A winning tradition and lifelong friendships make the game a little easier for Blacksburg.
This year, Bruin soccer will have ten graduating seniors, many of whom have played together over ten years. These ten men have a lot going on in May. They got through prom, exams, and graduation is looming. School will be over but the season will still be going. Post season will continue into June. It’s a bittersweet season that several senior players reflected on:
Sean DeLorenzo (#17)
Sean will be continuing his soccer career at the University of Lynchburg, participating in the Westover Honors College. Playing collegiately has been a dream of Sean’s since he was young. Sean said, “Playing BHS soccer has not only provided me with the opportunity to build relationships with friends, but has also made me feel like a part of a school community. The most important thing Coach B has taught me would be the importance of hard work. B has always stressed that working hard is one of the most important things on the field, and it is something that I have always tried to implement into my game.”
Addison Bass (Addi #18)
Addi will be attending Virginia Tech and majoring in Exercise and Health Sciences. He said, “BHS soccer has a long history of being a great team. I am proud to be a part of continuing the tradition of an excellent soccer team at BHS. Being on the soccer team has been one of my favorite things about high school. Coach B gives a lot of great advice. One thing I will always remember him saying is that if you’re on time, you’re late. If you’re early, then you’re on time. Another Coach B saying is “Critical 5” – the first five minutes after our team scores a goal. This can apply in other areas of life. Don’t slack off or let your guard down after an achievement.”
Riley Boyle (#2)
Riley will be attending Virginia Tech, College of Engineering. He said that being part of this soccer team has allowed him to be a part of something meaningful and given him lifelong friends. Riley will always remember this advice from Coach B: “Don’t give up on your teammates.” Riley offers, “For the younger players coming up behind these seniors…Make the most of it!”
Charlie Lattimer (Chuck, Cha #9)
Charlie will be attending Virginia Tech and studying Business. Charlie said, “Bus rides back from a big win with music playing, those have been some of the best times I ever had. It means a lot, being part of a great group of guys that are always there for you.” Some advice that Charlie will always remember from Coach B: “Keep your shoes tied for everything in life.”
Connor McFall (#21)
Connor will be attending Virginia Tech in the fall and is ready to “Start Jumping” as a freshman. He has been proud to play BHS soccer and for Coach B. Connor said, “The best advice B gave me was to enjoy the game and not worry too much. It helped me relax and improved my game.” He said his favorite memory was from last season when Kai scored an awesome goal and slid into the corner. The team ran over, slid too, and piled on him. Connor offers advice to the younger guys on the team, “Don’t let the BHS success go to your head, and remember how you felt as an underclassman. Be cool to the younger guys.”
Baxter Chermak (#19)
Baxter will be attending Virginia Tech. He is very excited for the opportunity to be self reliant in college. The best thing for Baxter about playing BHS soccer, has been getting to play with his friends.
Thank you to the 2024 graduating Blacksburg High School senior soccer players. It has been a joy to watch you dominate on the field and in the classroom the last four years. Your parents, your coaches, and your fans wish you the best of luck as you proceed into the next phase of your life. Enjoy these last few weeks together as a team as you go into the postseason. Go Bruins!
This is an unedited user writing submission. The views, information, or opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Best Version Media or its employees.
