The tournament season has begun and the Pioneers have come to play. They have outscored opponents 5-1 in their first two conference tournament games after an adversity-filled regular season.

The East boys soccer team started off the week with a 4-1 win over Lowell on Monday. Logan Becker ‘23 had an excellent showing, netting two goals. Jonah Bishop ‘22 and Ben Borak ‘23 also found the back of the net in the winning effort. They followed up with a 1-0 win over Northview on Wednesday in the conference semifinals. Jacob Griffin ‘24 was strong between the posts and Paul Gregory ‘22 scored the goal that would eventually be the difference for the Pioneers. 

While the start to the tournament season has been strong, the regular season didn’t happen without any ups and downs. A good, but not great, record that included an incredible seven draws. “We have been through a lot of adversity this year, and I think it brought our team together,” said Cam Brandstadt ‘22. “We never lost confidence when the results didn’t come at first. We are starting to play our best soccer at the right time, and we believe we can make a run at a state title.” 

East will look to contend with schools like Gull Lake, Fenton, St. Joseph, and crosstown rival Grand Rapids Christian in the race for the State Title. 

The Pioneers will take on Forest Hills Northern in the conference championship on Monday, October 11 at Memorial Field. Following the conference finals, the Pioneers will begin the state tournament on Wednesday.