The HS boys soccer team took home a big win on September eighth on Briar Chapel field four, beating River Mill for the first time since 2021.
The final score was seven to one. “It was one of the best games I’ve seen!” said Idris Abdullah, 12th Grade. “I wasn’t expecting that many people to be there, but people came, it was so loud.”
EJ Eaglin led the team in points with four goals, Nathan Dilworth scoring one, Oakes Ulrich scoring one, and Daniel Horil scoring one.
“They’re having a great season so far, the freshman class in bringing a big boost offensively,” said Jordan Gatcomb, Athletic Director “Were going to have to watch out for them.”
The team gained eight new freshmen this year, which leaves them with a larger bench to play and more subs after not having any seniors in the 2024-2025 season.
“Having no seniors was disappointing then, but it’s good now,” said Daniel Horil, Senior Captain, #9. “Being a captain is different this season because we had a very disappointing season last year. We made it to states, but a lack of commitment stopped us from getting there. I didn’t expect it and it’s something I am not going to let happen again.”
Horil’s strong persistence on the field and willingness to take charge has helped the wolves win three out of four games this season.
“He brings one hundred percent energy and tries to bring up the team. He’s always fighting it out for the ball and making some crazy shots,” said Valentina Podolyanskaya, 10th Grade.
There have been more students attending the games, with bigger crowds forming every time, providing a chance for students to engage with each other outside of the classroom.
“It’s so fun to cheer on the team, you know, and and also to figure out out the names of the people on the other team and then make them confused,” said Holton Mody,12th Grade.
Students have been increasingly participating with the players, waiting after the games to say hi to players on both teams.
“Even though they do not represent Woods Charter School, it is still nice to meet them. It shows how much sportsmanship we have, we care about our team and the other team.” said Mody.
The team played against Chatham Charter on September 11th, winning their second conference game four to one.
“There has been some changes to the conferences because of school size this year, so it’s easier, but I’ve seen a surprising amount of improvement from other schools this year, so it’s about the same amount of difficulty,” said Horil.
The next home game is on Monday, September 15th at 6:30 on Briar Chapel Field Four against the Northern Durham Knights.
“I am super excited for the game! It’s really fun to see how they will play and how the other team reacts to the crazy things students do. I hope we get to meet one of them after the game,” said Podolyanskaya.
