The Sault High Varsity Soccer Team wrapped up their 2023 season with an awards banquet celebrating the team’s efforts, and recognizing some outstanding athletes. Coached by Alan MacArthur, the team had a 4-13 record this year, with some of those losses being very close games. A nice mix of age, size and experience levels, the team welcomed several newcomers to the Varsity level sport this year. At any given time during each game this season, there were at least seven first year players on the field at the same time. The foundation of skills built with the newer athletes this season should allow the team next year to start their practices further along than where they were able to start this year. The young team has great potential in the coming seasons.
The following athletes received awards at the banquet. Rayce Rizzo and Nick Wood both received Most Valuable Player.
Jordan Doghmi and Cameron Gagnon were co-recipients of the Leadership Award.
Gavin Aikens and Calvin Swedene both received the Perseverance Award.
Jeremiah Clark, a Rudyard Co-Op athlete, earned the Defense Award.
Nathaniel Sommers received the Most Improved Player Award.
The team’s seniors reflected on their season and high school careers. Logan Orr shared, “I loved how hard everybody was working and how amazing the energy was. I couldn’t ask for a better last year with such a great group of guys.” Gavin Aikens reflected, “Soccer is something I am really gonna miss it has been a big part of my life for the last 4 years. I met so many people I probably wouldn’t have met otherwise. Choosing to play soccer was one of the best decisions I’ve made in the last 4 years.” Lastly, Rayce Rizzo commented, “We had a young team this season and many first year players. Overall we did good against the more experienced teams and I look forward to seeing how the team progresses in the next few years.”
Tryouts for next season will be announced next summer. Follow the team on “Blue Devils Soccer” on Facebook.
2023 Sault High Varsity Soccer TeamL-R Seniors: Logan Orr, Rayce Rizzo and Gavin Aikens
