Kicking off fall, the East Grand Rapids boys soccer season has only just begun and they have been working hard and dreaming to make a deep run in playoffs. 

And this week started strong with two wins under their belts. On Monday they beat Western Michigan Christian 2-0. On Wednesday they won a huge game against Forest Hills Eastern 3-1.

Last year’s team, being young and less experienced, struggled, finishing the year with a record of 3-15-3. However, this year’s team is stacked with strong seniors and experienced players, making the team more driven and goal-oriented. Last year, the team struggled mostly at being able to maintain possession, so the team has been prioritizing making possession one of this year’s strengths. 

“We’re looking at a more possession-based team instead of just like kicking the ball and running,” Kai Chenlo ‘25 said. 

The strong leadership this year from captains Jack Tol ‘25 and Ethan Brinker ‘26 has given the team a solid 2-3 start. 

Passion and hard work aren’t the boys’ only strengths.

“I think this year we have had better chemistry and have had a better bond as a team,” Brinker said. 

Long term the boys hope to make a memorable run in playoffs. 

“I can see us making it past districts,” Chenlo said. 

However, this goal is easier said than done. The boys will have to face tough competition in order to achieve the dream of a deep playoff run. 

“Forest Hills Northern is a difficult team to play,” Chenlo said. He also spoke about the rivalry with Grand Rapids Christian.

To gain an edge over the competition the boys will have to work hard in a few key areas to improve their game.

“I think we need to work on finishing and defending as a team,” Brinker said. 

With a lot of hard work, the boys will look to have a comeback season this fall.