| Articles posted on this page have been researched and written by a variety of contributors associated with the boys’ soccer program. The contents of each writing should spark memories involving the participants and matches throughout the thirty-five year history of the Mount Vernon Christian Boys’ Soccer program. Note: The Mount Vernon Christian All-Time First, Second and Third Team selections are now posted under the tab “Record Book”. They are updated at the end of each season by a small group that has knowledge of the past Hurricanes and follow the current MVC player accomplishments. Posts here include: ~Remembering the State Soccer Title – 10 Years Later ~Big Moment Victories. ~MVC Soccer Playlist Favorites. ~MVC Soccer Rivalries. ~A Groundskeeper, Routines and ‘Home Field’. ~Memorable Fields and Stadiums. |
| August 26, 2024. “Remembering the State Soccer Title – 10 Years Later” The 35th season of boys’ soccer at Mount Vernon Christian is set to kick off with the expectation of another successful year. During the first thirty-four seasons, Hurricane teams have posted regular season winning records 30 times, claimed ten league titles, earned 17 State Tournament appearances, and captured one State Championship. This fall marks the 10th anniversary of that 2014 undefeated State Championship season. “Remembering the State Soccer Title – 10 Years Later” takes another look at that memorable journey. The Hurricanes entered the season after a painful 2013 State Quarterfinal loss to Bear Creek that prematurely ended their season. In 2014, Friday Harbor re-entered the league after competing at the 1A level, providing an opportunity for the nine District One schools to create a home-and-away, sixteen match schedule with each other. Three of those schools showed up at the top of Washington Soccer Central’s preseason rankings – Grace Academy (1), Mount Vernon Christian (3) and Providence Classical Christian (4), while Friday Harbor was expected to be in the postseason mix as well. MVC returnees and a few newcomers met weekdays throughout June and July focusing on individual and team skills while competing together. This prepared them for official turnouts which began near the end of August. The Hurricanes then opened their regular season at Orcas Island. MVC played extremely disciplined defense. This allowed for a strong counterattack and assertive play. The Hurricanes scored half of their goals off converted crosses as they collected a lopsided, 8-0 victory over the Vikings. Match two for the Hurricanes was the sunny home opener against Friday Harbor before a large crowd who saw MVC weather some early Wolverine pressure as the Hurricanes grew into the match. The defense was again stellar, the offense created several key opportunities, and MVC posted a 2-0 shutout over a Friday Harbor team that showed they would be a title contender. Next up was a typically physical match that one expected with La Conner in those years and play was chippy from the opening whistle. The Hurricanes kept their focus, passed the ball well, and were able to execute offensive pressure. MVC notched a 5-0 victory on the road over their county rivals. The Hurricanes made their second ferry trip of the season, this time out to Lopez Island. The entire roster was finally eligible for the first time. MVC raised their intensity and everyone saw match action as the Hurricanes rolled the Lobos, 9-0 with their fourth consecutive league shutout. Back home for their fifth match of the season, the Hurricanes faced Grace Academy. MVC gave up their first goal of the season and fell behind early to the 2013 State Tournament runner-up. But that didn’t last long. The Hurricanes responded quickly, stepped up a relentless pressure on both ends of the field, and scored four unanswered goals in defeating the Eagles, 4-1. MVC traveled to Mountlake Terrace and enjoyed an 11-0 victory over Cedar Park Christian, where the reserves saw the majority of the action as the Hurricanes recorded their fifth shutout in six matches. This set the stage for an end-of-September match between the State’s top-ranked Providence Classical Christian and #2-ranked Mount Vernon Christian in Kirkland. At the Kirkland Lacrosse Center, the Hurricanes scored in the final minute of regulation time to tie the match, 1-1 and send the State’s two top-ranked schools to overtime. But things would not be settled during extra time that evening as the field lights were on a timer and they turned off with just under two minutes remaining. When lighting issues could not be resolved, the officials initially called the match a draw, but ties were not permitted for league matches so a continuation was scheduled for a later date. Shoreline Christian came north up Interstate 5 for a match that ended the first half of the regular season. The Hurricanes scored five goals in a 10-minute stretch to open the second half and cruised to an 8-0 victory. MVC remained at home as Orcas island came to town two days later. The Hurricanes were dominate in the midfield and controlled the tempo as they outscored the Vikings, 6-0 in recording their seventh shutout in nine matches. The Hurricanes played their third match in six days, traveling to San Juan Island to face Friday Harbor. The Wolverines played with solid organization and were tough to break down on their old and narrow, on-campus football field, but MVC left the island with a hard-fought and well-earned, 3-2 victory to stay unbeaten. MVC and La Conner met at Bulldog Stadium under the lights and on turf in order to draw a larger crowd from both school communities and help raise money for a former La Conner player battling leukemia. The prickly county rivalry continued that evening despite the Hurricanes dominate 8-0 victory. Later that week, MVC traveled to Marysville, where they showed a lot of character and played a solid soccer match defensively. The Hurricanes scored two first half goals, added another just after the break, and shutout Grace Academy, 3-0 limiting the Eagles to just a few opportunities. With reserves playing throughout most of the entire match, the Hurricanes scored all of their goals during the first 30 minutes and stormed past Lopez island, 7-0 to post their tenth shutout of the season. MVC had waited over two weeks for the resumption of their match with Providence Classical Christian but bussed back to Kirkland to finish what had been started. The wait was well worth it. The Hurricanes and Highlanders played the minute and a half of remaining overtime and then headed to a shootout. MVC outkicked the Highlanders, 4-2 from the spot to earn the victory. MVC upped their record to 13-0-0 and took over the State’s top ranking. MVC welcomed Cedar Park Christian-MLT to campus on Senior-Parent Recognition Night. Six Hurricane Seniors and their parents were honored in an on-field ceremony following an 8-0 victory over the Lions. The now second-ranked Hurricanes hosted Providence Classical Christian in a battle for the top-seed into the Tri-District Tournament. MVC was persistent and patient throughout the match. Despite playing into a stiff wind during the first half, the Hurricanes kept chipping away at the Highlander defense and it resulted in three first half goals. MVC showed patience defensively as they shut down each Providence build-up throughout the match. The Hurricanes claimed a 3-0 victory and the League Championship before a huge gathering from both schools. In a match between schools with important Christian Reformed roots, the Hurricanes closed out the regular season at Shoreline Christian with an 9-0 win over the Crusaders. MVC finished the first portion of their 2014 season with a 16-0-0 record that included 13 shutouts. The Hurricanes gave up just four goals defensively during those matches, while unleashing a potent offense that scored 95 goals. With the Tri-District Tournament’s top seed, MVC opened the postseason getting off to a quick start against Crosspoint Academy. The Hurricanes scored two goals in the opening five minutes, added a third just before the twenty-minute mark and went to halftime leading, 3-0. MVC continued to pass the ball exceptionally well on the Bulldog Stadium turf, dictated the game offensively and were focused defensively throughout the second half. The Hurricanes netted three more goals to topple the Warriors, 6-0. The victory moved MVC into a Semi-Final match against Friday Harbor back at Bulldog Stadium for a noon showdown. The Hurricanes left little doubt of their intentions, scoring three goals during the first eighteen-minutes and propelled themselves into the Tri-District Championship with an easy 4-0 victory over the Wolverines. MVC traveled to Bellevue’s Interlake High School for a Championship match with Providence Classical Christian. For the third time in the season, the Hurricanes defeated the Highlanders with an extremely satisfying and convincing, 3-1 victory. With the win, MVC claimed their first Tri-District Championship in program history, having outscored their opposition, 13-1 during the three postseason matches, including two more shutouts. The Hurricanes advanced to the State Quarterfinals sporting a 19-0-0 season record. But another first accomplishment was still to come! The Hurricanes opened the State Tournament with a 3-0 Quarterfinal victory over Evergreen Lutheran securing a trip to the WIAA 1B/2B State Championship Weekend in Sumner. On the turf at Sunset Chev Stadium, MVC recorded back-to-back, 2-1, come-from-behind victories – the first with Grace Academy in the Semi-Finals, and then with Waitsburg-Prescott in the Final match to earn the program’s first Boys’ State Soccer Championship. The Hurricanes finished with a 22-0-0 record overall, and to date, remain the only boys’ program to go undefeated in 1B/2B WIAA classification history. Because of their overall dominance, MVC finished the season ranked 10th nationally by MaxPreps. Below are the links to the State Tournament match articles from the Skagit Valley Herald. State Quarterfinal: https://www.goskagit.com/all_access/mount-vernon-christian-soccer-team-off-to-state-semifinals/article_a36c37dc-4e57-56c4-9ee9-53bd426b9dc3.html State Semi-Final: https://www.goskagit.com/all_access/mount-vernon-christian-boys-soccer-team-to-play-for-state-title/article_89dc5d46-7211-11e4-9725-3b08fb2d2bf0.html State Championship: https://www.goskagit.com/all_access/hurricanes-finish-on-top/article_7378f25c-ec5b-54b4-a2d7-13030eab9f5d.html “They represented every good that you would want from a Christian school athletic team on and off the field. They were so humble throughout this season. It’s the best team we have ever had,” said Head Coach Joel Adeline in a December 12, 2014 article published in “The Banner” that seemed emblematic of the team and its members who hoisted the State Championship trophy.  While the 2014 team members established a number of individual records that remain in the program’s history book, what will most be remembered is what they accomplished as a team, including notable All-Time MVC Boys’ Soccer single season records for Most Goals (115), Most Shutouts (16), Fewest Goals Allowed (7), Most Victories in a Season (22), Fewest Losses (0), Most Regular Season Victories (16), and Most Postseason Victories (6). Additionally, they are a huge part of combined team and multiple season records for the Longest Unbeaten Match Streak (41), Consecutive Northwest 2B/1B League Regular Season Victories (45), Consecutive District One Regular Season Victories (61), Consecutive Postseason Victories (8), and Consecutive MVC Home Field Victories (32). The 2014 Hurricanes (listed alphabetically by class) were Seniors: Isaiah Corp, Michael Hancock, Tyler Houtsma, James Hurd, Joshua Twedt, and Jayson Withers; Juniors: Tim Cummings, Riley Hood, and Dalton McIlrath; Sophomores: Jack Bender, Alex Bridge, Jack Hammingh, Travis Ketchum, Luis Pimental, Bryson Smith and Caleb Twedt; Freshmen: Carter Annema and Levi Gott. Joel Adeline was the Head Coach and the assistant coach was Robert Adeline. We are certain that supporters of MVC Boys’ Soccer will enjoy reminiscing about the State Championship season along with a number of the 2014 program participants who recently shared their reflections and memories as the 10th Anniversary nears. A fond memory I have from that 2014 season is staying on the field long after the whistle had blown, surrounded by friends and family [at Sumner after the State Championship]. The scoreboard stayed on as we finally walked off as a squad for the last time- I’ll never forget it! -Dalton McIlrath, 2014 Junior Midfielder- After playing soccer in England, Dalton graduated from CWU with a Bachelor of Science in Financial Planning and also earned a Certified Financial Planner designation. He currently lives in Jacksonville, FL, where he is employed at a wealth management firm providing financial planning services to clients. He will graduate from the University of North Florida this December with a Master of Business Administration. For me, the 2014 season proved to be foundational. Prior to my freshman year, I had several moments where I seriously considered attending other high schools. Perhaps the main thing that kept me from doing so was the soccer program. Even before I played a single minute, the coaches and the rest of the team showed a level of care and commitment that made it evident that this program was something of deep value, and somewhere I wanted to be. I was fairly inexperienced when it came to soccer. To be brutally honest, I was terrible. My teammates still treated me like a brother and drove me to be better. Despite all my poor touches, shaky coverages, or last-place finishes in 120s, there was an earnest and unwavering sense of their belief in me, who I was, and who I could be. I don’t think I would be anywhere near the same person without the experience of that season, nor without the teammates who modeled so many virtues at such a crucial, formative time of my life. The upperclassmen were willing to be strong examples, set expectations, and offer loving correction. To observe a group of such talented, skilled players exhibit the level of selflessness and commitment that my teammates did is rare. I consider myself blessed to have been a part of it. Throughout that season, and those following, there was an oft-repeated phrase that has brought me solace, “Remember who you are and Whose you are.” Even as a freshman who asked poorly timed questions (“What’s for dinner Coach?” comes to mind), was still learning the game, and definitely shagged more missed shots than played in-game minutes, there was a sense of value, of belonging, and of brotherhood in Christ that was clear. It fostered an expectation to embrace one’s role, no matter what that was or how much one needed to grow, because there was always an opportunity to do things better than before, and to help others do the same. That persistent chance to serve as iron to sharpen others has stuck with me and continues to be something I strive for in my vocations. There were many standout moments throughout that season, most prominent to me being Isaiah Corp’s goal against Grace Academy in the State Semifinals, Jayson Withers’ late, game-tying goal that shut the field down against Providence, and of course the State Championship against Waitsburg-Prescott. Overall, however, my memories of that season feature more images of the work the team put in, from summer workouts, to the Cooper Runs and Beep Tests, to the rainy and frosty practices as we went deeper into the season. I think that’s what made the results so meaningful. I was able to see the intensity, the focus, and the sacrifice that had been committed by my teammates daily and was able to take part in the joy of all that effort culminating in success. -Carter Annema, 2014 Freshman Midfielder- Carter is currently living in Seattle, working in data science and machine learning. He is in the process of finishing up the interview process and narrowing his choices for admission into one of three top-tier Law Schools, where Carter’s focus will be International Humanitarian Law and Labor Law. When I think back to the 2014 soccer season, two games stand out to me. First, the game at Friday Harbor, and second our game at Providence. First, Friday Harbor away. After a long time on the bus and taking a ferry, we played a good team that we hadn’t faced in a few years and hadn’t beat in twelve seasons on the island. We felt pressure facing a team we didn’t know much about at a field we historically didn’t play well on. The game felt like an uphill battle the entire time, but we walked away with a 3-2 win. I think that game set a standard for the rest of the year. Against the odds, we made a statement. Second, Providence away. Providence was always a challenge, especially at their field. They matched up well against us, and we knew the winner of the series would have an easier path come playoff time. After a long battle, Jayson Withers equalized late and sent the game to overtime. When the game was delayed because the field lights turning off, the weight of the outcome of that game seemed even heavier. We returned a week or so later to finish the last few minutes of overtime, where no one scored, sending the game to penalties. I don’t remember who scored the winning penalty, but I remember walking off that field feeling like we could take on anyone. That was the first moment I felt we had something special. That season was special, and I am so thankful I got to be a part of it. I am especially thankful for the leadership of our two coaches. They pushed us to be better on and off the field. I will forever be grateful for the time and effort they put into making us better men. -Tim Cummings, 2014 Junior Defender- Tim currently lives in Colorado where he has started his first semester of Graduate School, pursuing a Master of Architecture at the University of Colorado Denver, the same university he previously achieved his Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree from. Tim currently works at Felten Group, a residential architecture firm that works with home builders across the United States. I don’t have many memories of that time, but I do know that a lot of personal growth had happened that year due to the hard training from the program. I believe learning to push myself to work harder physically, more than I wanted, has translated to mental toughness that I have seen play out in my adult life.” -Levi Gott, 2014 Freshman Midfielder- Levi currently works construction with his Dad. On his days off, he enjoys fun, physical activity – weightlifting, hiking, and surfing at a wave park in Chelan. Levi lives in Arlington and hopes to always live in Arlington or Snohomish County where he can be near his family. Levi knows God has a plan for his life and rest on that. What an amazing season to go out on and be a part of. There was some serious brotherhood between all the guys and coaches that forged something really special, something that never leaves you even after it’s done. It’s hard to pin down your favorite moment with a bunch of guys like that…. too many to count! I would say that my favorite part of being with this group was the coaching. All the teams in the Premier League don’t have enough money combined to buy what the Adelines were giving to us. That passion they gave us every single day on and off the field was unmatched. It held you accountable and motivated you to get better every day. I still think back to what I should have done differently or focused on more that season…. and we went 22-0…. hard to beat that. But that’s the type of mindset that was instilled in us. You work your butt off for the guy next to you and if that’s not enough motivation for you, you’d better go home. So, to narrow down my favorite moments off this theme, some of my fondest memories were getting picked up by teammates. Jay picking me up after getting a tooth knocked out. Tyler picking me up after exhaustion running the length of the field. Dalton stepping up and putting away a PK, sealing the win after I had just missed my own. For the coaches, I still remember them ensuring we had every window rolled down on the bus so we could sing “We are the Champions” nice and loud after beating a team we weren’t too fond of….i t was nice to see them have a bit of pride over the amazing team they mentored. The only regret I have is not bringing home that trophy sooner for the guys that had led us before. -James Hurd, 2014 Senior Midfielder- After playing soccer in England, James earned a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management from CWU. He is currently the lead diesel mechanic of a shop. James has aspirations of starting a repair business of his own soon. It’s been 10 years ago that we won a State Championship! I was a junior in high school and it’s been a while, but it still feels like yesterday. When it comes to memories about that season specifically there are a few game moments that always pop in my head whether that be the two-part game and shootout with Providence, stopping a PK to keep the clean sheet at Lopez Island, games of pure intensity and adrenaline with PCC, Grace Academy, or the chippy play with Friday Harbor, Orcas Island and La Conner. And that’s just our regular season! We were a team that knew how to come in and compete. We had lots of talent and skill but without the attitude from our coaches, the competition and attitude would have lacked in my opinion. Because of that my favorite memories come from the competition at practice the way our strikers and midfielders and defenders always wanted to be on top in drills. It had nothing to do with dislike toward one another, but pure competition within the brotherhood we had created on that team. Pushing each other through sprinting 120s in order to always beat someone next to you, and of course, my favorite as a goalie was three-tier shooting; the competition of trying to push my own teammates to put shots on target as best as possible as they tried to score all 3 tiers, and my determination to not ever let anyone score all three so I could get Coach to buy me a dinner on the way home from the next away game! Overall, so many different things I have taken away and used in my life as I’ve grown. I still read and remember our Core Values and the competition has taught me to always push myself to be better in all aspects of life no matter the situation. -Riley Hood, 2014 Junior Goalkeeper- Riley currently works at Boeing under the 767 KC-46 Refueling Tanker program, where he is a team lead, a fuel tank sealer and helps with refurbishing planes. With regards to the Soccer State Championship season, it was one of the highlights of my time in school and the teammates I had were a big part of that. I remember the way that we practiced with each other and were able to bring out the best for each of us in our respective roles. There was always a push to be the best you could be and to work together. We succeeded in doing this throughout the season, won all of our matches, and achieved our goal of a State Championship. -Isaiah Corp, 2014 Senior Midfielder- Isaiah currently is finishing up his Architecture Degree at WSU. He has been working at Carletti Architects as an assistant for nearly two years, where he is doing AutoCAD drafting on a variety of commercial and multi-family residential buildings. The theme of our 2014 season was “Do things better than they have ever been done before”. This theme at first seemed daunting and frankly a load that I thought I had to bear alone. Throughout the season, the theme got clearer and clearer. It was not achieving perfection, rather, it was pushing one another to excellence that can only be achieved through being a team. The night of the State Championship we did not play perfect, giving up a goal in the first five minutes. However, we did not waver, we stuck together and we, as a team, did better than we had before. The determination, will power, and an attitude of togetherness led us to hoisting the trophy that night all fueled by a passion to do better than we had before for the other ten men on the field. Another highlight that I will hold forever is something the coaches told us after we won the State Championship game. “You have not arrived.” I loved this bold statement that reminded my teammates and me that we are made for so much more. I often look back at that night and am reminded of a great accomplishment, but not a reason to stop. As special as that night was, it is only the start for us as men, husbands, fathers, and Jesus followers. “You have not arrived” has been a catalyst that pushes me to serve my community, my family, and Savior. Finally, family was a crucial part of the State Championship game. Both my cousin, Jack Hammingh, and I had the privilege of scoring goals in the State Championship game. I decided to wear a shirt that said “Thank you Opa” underneath my jersey for the State Championship game. I wanted to honor the man who inspired me to play the game of soccer, taught me about the ebbs and flows of the game, and showed up to all my games. When the final whistle blew, Jack and I gravitated towards our Opa, wanting to make sure that he got some credit for the State Championship as well. We rejoiced, laughed, and cried tears of joy together sharing this beautiful moment that we all accomplished together. I’ll remember this beautiful season and reflect on time specifically with Opa and Jack. I sure do miss them a lot! -Tyler Houtsma, 2014 Senior forward- Tyler currently is student teaching this fall in Arlington as he finishes up a teaching degree in Mathematics. Previously, he worked as a Pastor with the ministry of Hub City Church in Burlington. He and his wife, Cameron, live in Mount Vernon with their almost one year old daughter, Margot. I have a short memory, but it was one of our biggest moments of the season. It was when we played Providence away. We were down by one late in the game, nearing stoppage time, and we got a late goal to tie the game. The game got sent to overtime and with two minutes left, the light went out. We ended up having to come back a couple of weeks later to end the match and have a penalty shootout. I still remember the practices before the shootout and Coach asked the team, “Who’s gonna take the penalties?” Instantly five hands went up: Tyler Houtsma, James Hurd, Jayson Withers, Dalton McIlrath and myself. We didn’t need a sixth; we won it with five! Providence was definitely our biggest rival that year and our toughest opponent. Getting that goal late in the game was the best feeling of the season, topped only by lifting the (State) trophy with all my teammates. I can’t believe it has been ten years already. I always have great memories of my time on the soccer team and with the coaches. -Michael Hancock, 2014 Senior Defender- After returning from playing soccer in England, Michael attended WCC before moving to Ellensburg. During the last couple of years, he has worked primarily in the construction field, but also attended the Viva Farms farm school program. Presently, Michael is farming and working with Thor McIlrath on a large hangar project at the Arlington Airport. The memories of the 2014 season start, for us, in 2013. That team had such a great year as well. As that year ended, we could all see the potential for the 2014 team, and it couldn’t come soon enough. So many pieces that were coming together in the right way at the right time: the juniors that would form such a formidable senior core; the underclassmen that showed so much promise with another year to grow and improve; the coaches that were able to challenge and mold all of the young men. Then 2014 finally came, and what a year it was. Something that also comes to mind in regard to the 2014 team is family. Not just “blood” relations such as the dynamic son/father coaching staff, first cousins Tyler and Jack (who sometimes seemed more like brothers) – with second cousin Bryson, and the Twedt brothers. But also, the senior core – a close-knit group that led the team both on the field as well as off. And really the whole team – a family in itself. Our family was also blessed when Jack and Tyler’s grandfather was asked to hand out the game ball when playing Shoreline Christian, for whom another grandson was playing. Their grandfather had just been released from the hospital that day but refused to miss seeing his three grandsons play together. We’ll never forget the small huddle that they made, with him telling them how proud he was of them and how much he loved them. We believe there were very few dry eyes. There are so many wonderful memories from that year, and the other years that Jack was involved in the MVCS soccer program. We hold and cherish them dearly and are so very thankful for them and all of the students, parents and faculty involved. -Henry and Jayne Hammingh- Written on behalf of their son, John “Jack” Hammingh, a four-year member of the MVC Boys’ Soccer program from 2013 – 2016, who died unexpectedly on March 22, 2020, in Ellensburg. [R.I.P. #10] The first thing that comes to mind when remembering the State title in 2014 is walking out of the locker room and rounding the corner of the bleachers to the field. I hear my name called from the fence behind us and it’s my Uncle. He shouts out asking, “Who was the second man to land on the moon?” I said “I don’t know” to which he said pointing a finger “EXACTLY! No one remembers second place!” On a serious note, there are so many great memories from that year. But the most influential part of being in the Men’s Soccer program at MVC was the goal for us each day – Do better than we’ve ever done before. This has stuck with me in the workplace and as a husband and a father. I strive every day to do something better than I’ve ever done before. My wife Jacqueline and son Jaxson are my greatest accomplishments and my greatest purpose alongside serving the Lord. -Joshua Twedt, 2014 Senior Defender- Joshua currently works at the BP Cherry Point Refinery where he supervises Rope Access crews hanging from towers x-raying and using ultrasound to check out the inside of metal stuff. He, his wife and their son live in Mount Vernon. When I look back at our season, I remember several things. “Always Win”. To clarify, this isn’t just winning games; this was winning in the classroom (focusing on studies), winning at practice (focusing and do your best constantly to get better every day), win the game (give every game 110% and leave the game no matter the result knowing you did your best). Second, “Don’t quit, stay focused”. We played Providence, took the game to the last 20 seconds, I got a cross and one hit the ball into the goal and tied the game. After that the weirdest chain of events occurred – the lights shut off, Providence players took some cheap shots at our players. We got told we were going to play overtime [after a few weeks]. We did and went into a shootout and won. I believe the way we won was we didn’t quit; we didn’t get caught up in the drama. We stayed focused and disciplined on the job we had to do and we went and executed it and won. Lastly, we were a brotherhood. You win together, you compete together, and you lose together. You bring each other up, make each other better. Keep the brotherhood because the value of brotherhood will follow you into your future. -Jayson Wither, 2014 Senior Midfielder- Jayson currently works for the Bothell Fire Department. He and his wife of six years, Hannah, live in La Conner with their two amazing sons, three-year old Travis and William, who is one. Jayson is already teaching the boys how to fish. 2014 was all about how we were going to do it better than it had ever been done before. Throughout that whole season, we played really, really well in nearly every match. This can be attributed to how well the players had prepared. The buy-in to work out the whole summer was phenomenal. We had full squads practicing nearly every day in June and July and every Friday our starting unit dominated our alumni squads, made up of former all-league and all-state players. We had some of the best offensive players having to prove every day and match that they were as good as Jeremiah Lee [Grace Academy] or the offensive kids from Providence. You had hard-working and skilled midfielders and defenders, who would have been the best players on almost every other team, just blending in to our whole team concept, and again playing to prove how good they were. This approach made these guys so hungry and tough to play against. Plus, losing so painfully in 2013 to Bear Creek gave us all a huge chip on our shoulder. We loved winning as a program and putting in a ridiculous amount of hard work allowed us to do what we did in 2014. We believed in almost every game that we could come out and dominate our opponents. So much of what we focused on was just improving so that our technique and tactics were sound and refined. The seasons we put together in 2012-2015 were big time seasons in terms of scoring and playing really good, solid defense. But what is amazing is that the level of play around the State at that time was so high as well. We were at our best when Providence, Grace, Bear Creek, Friday Harbor, Prescott and Saint George’s were also fielding some of their very best programs in their school histories. That’s pretty cool to think about. Snippets still flash in my mind from our 2014 season: -James Hurd’s dribbling the full field in the Tri-District Finals -Tyler Houtsma destroying Friday Harbor in the air during Tri-Districts -Jayson Withers’ goal versus Providence to tie it in regulation -Dalton McIlrath playing near perfect passing games in the State Quarterfinal and Semi-Final -Riley Hood’s goalkeeping especially in the State Finals -Bryson Smith’s goal in the State Quarterfinals -Isaiah Corp’s tying goal in the State Semi-Final -Joel Adeline-2014 Head Coach- Joel currently is teaching and coaching at Miller School of Albemarle in Virginia, where he lives with his wife, Cali and their two daughters. After leaving MVC, he taught and coached at Boston Prep and then spent seven years being a stay-at-home dad. The following link below shares a Washington State Senate Resolution regarding the 2014 Boys’ Soccer Championship season. https://lawfilestestext.leg.wa.gov/BienniumTest/2015-16/Pdf/Bills/Senate%20Resolutions/8639-Mt.%20Vernon%20Chr%20School%20soccer.pdf |
| June/July 2023. “Big Moment” Victories Throughout the Seasons. “The more difficult the victory, the greater the happiness in winning.” ~Pele Recently, a site follower sent us a list containing some “big moment” victories for the MVC Boys’ Soccer program. Realizing the program has had many “big moments” among the 394 all-time program wins over thirty-three seasons, we have included a few additional regular and postseason matches and all are highlighted below. Regular season matches include ~ the 1991 first-ever victory in program history after going without a win during the 1990 inaugural season. MVC goes on to post a winning season record at 7-4-1. [Note: we are seeking more information about this match-score, opponent, highlights, etc.] ~the 1998 victory that secured the program’s first-ever Northwest League Championship. [Note: we are seeking more information about this match-score, opponent, highlights, etc.] ~ the 2001 comeback and shootout victory, 3-2 over Shoreline Christian, to claim the Northwest League Championship. ~ the 2010 shocking late-season shootout victory over an undefeated, top-ranked, and arguably the best team ever fielded at La Conner. Led by an amazing MVC defense that day, the match also featured the first time utilizing the strategy of winning ten-minute games within an 80-minute match. ~ the 2012 victory over Providence Classical Christian 2-1, which ended the Highlanders win streak and begin a five-year regular season span where MVC would not lose to PCC. ~the 2013 MVC victory over a best-ever Grace Academy squad (the Eagles go on to finish second in State) earning the Hurricanes an undefeated regular-season, Northwest League and District One Championship. ~ the 2014 win in Kirkland against Providence Classical Christian after MVC tied the match late during regulation. Then during the second overtime, the lights turn off with two minutes remaining forcing a match resumption three weeks later between the State’s top two-ranked schools, and MVC claims the victory in a shootout, 2-1. ~the 2016 late October victory against undefeated Providence Classical Christian 4-2 on Senior Night, which extended the Hurricane home field consecutive win streak to thirty matches dating back to 2013. District One and Tri-District Tournament matches include: ~the 2008 upset at The Bear Creek School 2-1, earning the Hurricanes their first ever victory against the Grizzlies. ~ the 2014 semi-final victory where the Hurricanes dominate Friday Harbor 4-0, after playing two close regular season matches with the Wolverines, resulting in MVC’s fifteenth shutout of the season. ~ the 2017 victory over undefeated Crosspoint Academy for only the second Tri-District Championship in program history. The Hurricanes man-mark the State’s leading scorer, keep him without a shot for the entire match, stop three on-goal shots in final minute, and MVC records its third consecutive 1-0 victory of the postseason. (Note: Crosspoint would go onto finish 19-1-0 and win the State Championship.) State Quarterfinal matches include: ~ the 2001 MVC shootout victory over University Prep 1-0, that sends the Hurricanes to their first Final Four State A/B Championship Weekend in program history. ~ the 2004 Double Overtime thriller over Overlake School 3-2, marking the second time in four years MVC plays in the Final Four State A/B Championship Weekend. ~ the 2012 victory over The Bear Creek School as MVC scores a goal in each half in defeating the Tri-District Champion Grizzlies 2-1, returning the Hurricanes to the Final Four State Championship Weekend for the first time since 2004. ~ the 2015 gutty MVC victory over Friday Harbor 3-2, coming off a painful Tri-District Championship loss a week earlier that snapped a 41-match win streak. The win earns the Hurricanes the first back-to-back Final Four State Championship Weekend trip in program history. ~ the 2022 MVC 2-1 victory on Moses Lake’s Lions Field over Upper Columbia Academy (Spangle). The Lions score early, MVC ties the match before halftime and then get the winning goal late in the second half, sending the Hurricanes to the Final Four State Championship Weekend for the first time since 2015. State Championship Final Four Weekend matches include: ~ the 2004 Consolation Final victory over Friday Harbor 4-0, the first win in four matches over the Wolverines that season, and MVC claims their highest finish at State to that point in program history. ~ the 2014 State Semi-Final 2-1 victory over Grace Academy sending MVC to its first Championship match in program history. ~ the 2014 State Championship 2-1 victory over Waitsburg-Prescott to claim the first Boys’ Soccer State Championship in program history, culminating a 22-0-0 season, which remains the only undefeated season recorded by a school in the 1B/2B WIAA classification and earns MVC a tenth-place ranking nationally by MaxPrep. [Note: We would like to encourage followers of the program to send any additional “big-moment” victories that might be included in a follow-up post. Please email your ideas/information to rpadeline@comcast.net] |
| March 2023. All-Time MVC Boys’ Soccer Program Playlist Favorites. According to sports performance research, the playing of popular songs at athletic events provides atmosphere, entertains the crowd, promotes school spirit, and helps to build excitement. For the athlete, the music acts directly on the brain to make it produce dopamine (stimulating effect of pleasure and satisfaction), endorphin (calming effect) and allows to reduce the rate of cortisol (decrease in stress). Music at soccer matches can also trigger positive memories, internal motivation, improved focus, and a positive feeling of camaraderie during organized match warm-up routines. A variety of songs have been played on campus for home MVC matches. Over the past twenty seasons, the Hurricanes have won 86% of regular season matches on their campus field, including a string of 32 consecutive wins from 2013-2017. Enjoy listening to those songs selected and recall wonderful memories by using the links below. [Note: Sites listed are shared for personal enjoyment and not in violation of any copyright laws.] ENTRANCE TO THE FIELD SONGS (from Various Seasons) Song for Rich (Michael W. Smith) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QU-_kn0hM7k Enter Sandman (Metallica) instrumental https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zB_SfdV5P8c Shipping Up to Boston (Dropkick Murphy) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6u_r7aLKWi4 HOME PRE-MATCH WARM-UP SONGS (from Various Seasons) Never Let Down (Andrew WK) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hBwvuSQ6l6o Woah oh oh [Kernkraft 400] (Zombie Nation) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WRbuvKYKI54 Heaven Help Us-Globus (Europa Instrumental) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqKwpVjLByg Sandstorm (Darude) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRczGJ-4M5g Can’t Hold Us (Macklemore & Ryan Lewis) Instrumental https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5vsP94IF-w Seven Nation Army (The White Stripe s)instrumental https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fb3PHlqCYVo Basket Case (Green Day) instrumental https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zx37PRJsCuo Funky Town (Lipps, Inc.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEt3YgP8IeQ Taking Care of Business (Bachman Turner Overdrive) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BO9XahvB9V0 The Bongo Song (Safri Duo) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08vAJnqj_J0 Beautiful Goal https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=svLYZePHCnk Final Hour (X-Ray Dog) Night Hounds https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vK89z6SvvFo Rods & Cones (Blue Man Group) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d3zSx6LeiH0 Sweet Home Alabama (Lynyrd Skynrd) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-35W_FWCT9Q SONG AS CAPTAINS’ MET AT CENTER PRIOR TO MATCH Hymn-Barclay’s Premier League Introduction https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3565EQ-pAuY BUS AND/OR LOCKER ROOM SING-ALONG SONGS (from Various Seasons) You Better Get Ready to Die (Andrew WK) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdB6TGonTms Everybody was Kung Fu Fighting Everybody was Fung Fu fighting, Those Cats were fast as lightning! Hi-Ya! Sweet Caroline (Neil Diamond)[different rendition, but a good one.] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TbviR7RwKOA Livin’ On a Prayer (Bon Jovi) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6irrXGQZ_CA Don’t Stop Believin’ (Journey) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oBJ1aMn08l8 AFTER HOME MATCH LEAVING THE FIELD SONGS (from Various Seasons) This Little Light of Mine (Bruce Springsteen) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0qAYq1GVec You’ll Never Walk Alone Die Toten Hosen https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldQ5iYnc1y4 Good Riddance [Time of Your Life] (Green Day) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_bTdLi0YUVM |
| January 2023. A Look at MVC Boys’ Soccer RIVALRIES. A healthy, on-field soccer rivalry can be defined as one that brings together two schools with a strong competitive spirit, longstanding connections with plenty of storied history and tradition, as well as shared enthusiasm from students, spectators, and communities, where the best in competition is realized. There may also be a close proximity of the two schools. Multiple studies have shown that a healthy rivalry can serve to inspire, motivate, increase effort and performance, while also promoting a respect and friendship that is mutually beneficial for the schools involved. A few of the past and current MVC Boys’ Soccer program rivalries (listed in no order) that meet the criteria shared above include: La Conner- With campuses separated by just ten miles across the flats of the Skagit Valley, the Hurricanes and Braves have met 64 times, the most of any MVC opponent. The Hurricanes hold a lopsided advantage in the series, 45-19-0 overall, including twenty consecutive match wins from 2011 into the 2021 season. Seldom have both schools been at their best during the same season, but that has never diminished the intensity and physical play. Memorable La Conner Matches: -A 2010 late October MVC Shootout victory, 2-1, stunning the then-undefeated Braves (13-0-0) and State’s top-ranked team. -A 2013 Bi-District MVC win, 6-2, during torrential rains and windstorm, where La Conner complained about field conditions. Providence Classical Christian- A rivalry that did not begin until 2008, the Highlanders and Hurricanes have had many epic matches throughout their relatively short relationship on the field, as well as raucous support among spectators representing each school. A five-year span from 2012-2016 fortified the rivalry as PCC and MVC met in State Tournament or Tri-District matches while both were top-five ranked teams in the State. The Hurricanes came out the victor in four of these contests. All-time, MVC’s record with the Highlanders stands at 19-12-0. Memorable Providence Classical Christian Matches: -A 2014 regular season MVC Shootout win on the road, 2-1, in the continuation of an earlier match where the lights had gone out. -A 2014 Tri-District Championship victory, 3-1, deflating PCC and cementing MVC as a State Champion favorite. Shoreline Christian/Watson Groen Christian- Coming from similar Christian Reformed roots, this rivalry was one of the very best whenever the then-nicknamed Crusaders and Hurricanes met. The 57 matches played against each other is the second most in MVC program history. MVC’s first-ever postseason match came in 1996 against Shoreline Christian. From then through the 2010 season, both schools fielded strong, well-coached teams, which brought about difficult, evenly contested matches and passionate community support. The Hurricanes posted ten consecutive victories against the Crusaders from 2011-2015, leaving the overall record favoring MVC, 36-21-0. Following the 2015 season, Shoreline Christian discontinued their soccer program bringing to close one of the healthiest and hard-fought soccer rivalries that has existed. Memorable Shoreline/Watson Groen Christian Matches: -A 2001 MVC comeback Shootout victory at home, 3-2, to clinch the Northwest League Championship. -A 2015 MVC match victory, 12-1, which was Shoreline Christian’s final match in their program’s history. Friday Harbor- During many years, it seemed the Hurricanes and Wolverines both fielded formidable squads during the same season. There was an intensity and a bit of animosity when the two schools met, resulting in well contested, nerve-wracking, and chippy matches. The site of matches often impacted results, with the Wolverines enjoying the narrow confines of their on-campus football field and vocal fan base, while the larger field dimensions at MVC enhanced the Hurricanes’ style of play, combined with sidelines full of loyal supporters. Overall, MVC holds a 25-16-0 advantage all-time in the series. Memorable Friday Harbor Matches: -A 2004 State Consolation Final victory, 4-0, in University Place, giving MVC their first State Final Four victory and Third Place. -A 2015 State Quarterfinal victory at Mount Vernon, 3-2, sending the Hurricanes to back-to-back State Final Fours. Saint George’s- Hallmarks of this rivalry are mutual respect of past players, coaches, athletic directors, supportive school communities, and each program’s significant soccer success and tradition. Since 2001, twelve State Tournaments have been played where both the Dragons and Hurricanes qualified. Only twice during this period has a State Tournament happened without either school present; Mount Vernon Christian appearing 16 times and Saint George’s 15. Unfortunately, the Hurricanes are 0-9-0 all-time against the Dragons, despite some tight contests, including a 2017 non-league match held at MVC. The two schools have faced each other six times in State Tournaments- three Quarterfinals, two State Semi-Finals, and one Consolation Final. Memorable Saint George’s Matches: -A 2007 State Quarterfinal Shootout loss held in Spokane, 3-2, after MVC led the match for seventy-six minutes. -A 2022 State Consolation Final Shootout loss held in Everett, 3-2, after MVC tied the match in the second half. Snohomish County Christian and Holy Cross (Archbishop Murphy)- For present day followers, it might be hard to imagine that these two schools were several of the biggest rivals during the early years of the MVC soccer program, but they were. Both the Lions and Wildcats had well-established programs and were perennial league champions. Matches with these two schools served as measuring sticks for the upstart Hurricanes’ progress. As MVC’s program developed, so did the rivalry. Snohomish County Christian, later named North Sound Christian and presently Cedar Park Christian-Mountlake, is not considered a rival today. Holy Cross (renamed Archbishop Thomas Murphy in 1999) moved from the 1A to 2A classification, so the Hurricanes do not compete against the Wildcats in soccer. The Bear Creek School- Despite only meeting six times between 2006-2013, when the WIAA classified A and B-sized schools together, there was an instant rivalry that resulted between the Grizzlies and Hurricanes. Five matches came during the postseason including three State Quarterfinals and two Tri-District matches, and one Tri-District Championship. Memorable Bear Creek School Matches: -A 2008 Tri-District match where MVC shocked the Grizzlies, 2-1, on Bear Creek’s home field. -A 2012 MVC State Quarterfinal victory held at Sammamish, 2-1, sending MVC to the State’s Final Four. Orcas Island- Thanks to fourteen straight victories against the Hurricanes since late in the 2017 season, the Vikings have created a renewed interest, anticipation, and even a sense of rivalry whenever the two schools meet for a match nowadays. Prior to 2010, MVC held a 15-4-0 overall advantage in matches with Orcas Island. Then came a string of sixteen consecutive Hurricane wins from 2010 through the mid-2017 season as MVC routinely dominated matches. Memorable Orcas Island Matches: -A 2011 Hurricane victory on the island, 6-3, where MVC first debuted their 3-4-3 formation, a style used for a number of seasons. -MVC State Quarterfinal losses in 2017 and 2018, prior to the WIAA changes to seeding that now keeps league schools from meeting in 1B/2B Quarterfinal State matches. |
| November 2022. A GROUNDSKEEPER, ROUTINES and a ‘HOME FIELD’ When the soccer season moves to the final week of October and well into November, the crispness of an early morning turnout often finds the frost-covered field shrouded with a blanket of fog before sunbeams break through the lingering mist. The field takes on a different look, feel, and urgency depending on the time of the season. Since 1990, many Hurricane varsity student-athletes have partaken in varsity soccer matches. [Each can be seen by clicking on the “Team Photos” tab on this site.] An entire roster will rotate every few years as players matriculate through the program, from boys as freshmen to young men as seniors. Besides numerous participants, the program has also had eight head coaches. Even the on-campus field placement has changed three times throughout the program’s existence What hasn’t changed over the thirty-three years of varsity boys’ soccer is the school’s head groundskeeper. Clarence Klunder has taken pride in providing and maintaining one of the best, all-grass match fields in the league and district, along with a few fellow field caretakers. Every season, Clarence herds the riding lawnmower across the acreage of Mount Vernon Christian fields. Before soccer came to campus, he had already put in eleven years of lawn mowing. Back and forth, east and west, north and south, creating patterns like those seen from aerial shots of the finest fields in the land. Come match day, it is game on for Clarence! He sets about and does some of his best work. Despite mowing the entirety of the various school fields each week, Clarence is out early on a match day mowing the varsity field one more time, making his part ready, before fresh bright white lines are re-applied onto the manicured and well-groomed field providing Hurricane teams and their guests the best possible field conditions. It has even been hinted that when you walk onto the playing surface at MVC, you are walking onto ‘hallowed grounds’, a field used only for varsity home matches. Happenstance? Absolutely not! For years during the mid-summer months, the late Chris VanderWekken would fertilize, set large kick sprinklers and trim around the fringes of the field. By late August, the field was green and ready for preparation. Athletic Director Dennis DeKok would bring out a variety of measuring tapes and meticulously determine all the elements for the field—its length, width, corners, goal and 18-yard box, sidelines and more. Satisfied only when all measurements were as precise as a quarter of an inch, DDK would use diesel to burn in the lines before painting them. This practice was stopped, not because of environmental concerns, but because more than a few players turned or broke an ankle in the shallow divots created by the product. Finally came the setting of goals, along with an almost ceremonially installation of the nets. Eight years ago, when a family of moles tried to make the field their home, a self-proclaimed ‘mole eradicator’ was called upon to rid the friendly confines of its unwanted guests through his “specialized trapping technique”. Fast forward. An hour or so before the start of the match, the field lays ready. By the time visiting players and referees arrive, MVC players enter the field, and spectators line the sidelines, the only thing that remains is the match itself. Because of one legendary groundskeeper, five athletic directors, and a few selfless other caretakers through the seasons, who have loved the boys’ soccer program and understood that the venue will always be a place where memories are created, the same field routines have been carried on throughout much the program’s history. Over the seasons, there have been attempts to call the field by name, such as Alumni Field, Varsity Field, Hurricane Place, Mission Field, but none seemed suitable. Maybe just call it ‘Home Field’, as in a ‘home-field’ advantage. [Author’s note: This is a historical perspective and one cannot think of MVC soccer field preparation without recalling Jack Hammingh, who would trim in and around the practice goals all summer so he and teammates could practice shot, after shot, after shot on goal.] |
| October 2022. MEMORABLE FIELDS and STADIUMS. With their environments, crowds, anticipation, and entire match experience, some fields and stadiums have become more memorable than others throughout the thirty-three seasons of Mount Vernon Christian Boys’ Soccer. Listed below are some of the more noteworthy venues that have provided lifelong MVC Boys’ Soccer memories. Working our way backward like ESPN’s SportsCenter’s [“da da da, da da da”] nightly Top Ten~ 10. (Three-Way Tie involving just a single match played at each site) Kirkland Lacrosse Center, Kirkland, WA. Known as “The Night the Lights Went Out in Kirkland”, the 2014 match features the top teams in the State—#1 Providence Classical Christian and # 2 MVC. There is great intensity on the field and among the numerous vocal and rowdy spectators from both schools in attendance. Trailing 1-0, the Hurricanes knock in a late equalizer sending the match to overtime. With two minutes left in the second extra period, the lights go out; the result of PCC not having prearranged the evening’s match with their local Parks Department. After much discussion and frustration, the match is suspended. Returning to the same field three weeks later, the remaining two-minutes are played, before MVC finally claims a thrilling victory during a memorable Shootout, changing the trajectory of their season, setting up an unforgettable conclusion. Owens Field at The Bear Creek School, Redmond, WA. In 2008, the Hurricanes travel to play the top-ranked Grizzlies on their home field in a A/B Tri-District match. The rain-drenched, eventful afternoon sees the visitors score two goals, have one of their best players injured and taken to the hospital and surrender a late goal, before claiming a 2-1 victory and a berth in the State Tournament. It also marks the first win over The Bear Creek School in program history. Seattle Lutheran Field/Park, West Seattle, WA. Despite the attack and tragic events that happen around the nation on the morning of September 11, 2001, MVC busses to West Seattle for an afternoon match with the Saints. The unsettled feelings among team members are the result of seeing multiple battleships visible from the field and fighter jets constantly taking off on patrol runs throughout the match. The Hurricanes struggle on the field and lose. Despite the loss, the Hurricanes go on to the school’s first-ever A/B State Semi-Final soccer berth, but in recalling the events of that September day, team members still wonder why they played on 9/11. 9. Interlake HS Stadium, Bellevue, WA. One of the stadium sites that was used for Tri-District tournaments where the Hurricanes experienced some very memorable matches. Four amazing match results from here include a 3-2 A/B State Quarterfinal overtime victory with The Overlake School in 2004, a 2-0 Tri-District win over undefeated King’s West in 2007, a 3-1 Tri-District Championship victory over Providence Classical Christian in 2014, and a Tri-District loss in 2015 to Tacoma Baptist, snapping the MVC’s consecutive win streak at forty-one matches. 8. Friday Harbor HS Football Field (old field on campus). The complete soccer experience was always had whenever the Hurricanes traveled to San Juan Island and played the Wolverines on their old football field. Matches were always very physical and competitive. The first halves were made more difficult, often the result of tightly scheduled ferry travel and shortened warm-up time, referred to by coaches as the “Friday Harbor Funk”. A 3-2 MVC win in 2014 ends a twelve season Friday Harbor win streak on this field with the Hurricanes. Island visits ended with the camaraderie of team members relaxing and enjoying fish n’ chips from the Hungry Clam before catching the late ferry back to the mainland. 7. Edmonds District Stadium, Edmonds, WA. Before the changed format of postseason, A/B Tri-District Tournament matches were all held at this venerable stadium. Arguably, two of the most memorable of all the Hurricane performances at this site come in 2001 when they score late in a 1-0 victory over Cedar Park Christian that sends MVC to its first-ever A/B State Tournament. In the State quarterfinals also contested here, the Hurricanes continue their run with a 1-0 Shootout win over University Prep, that sends them to Auburn Memorial Stadium for the State Championship Semi-Final/Final Weekend. 6. Dahl Field, Orcas Island HS, Eastsound, WA. The grass was often mushy and torn-up a bit. There was always an anxiousness about playing here. The old football field was fully crowned and narrow, but that did little to slow down MVC offenses designed to operate in wide-open spaces. All-time, the Hurricanes dominated the Vikings when they traveled to the Eastsound field losing only a handful of times here. 5. Shoreline Center Soccer Field A, Shoreline WA. Depending on the weather,the entirely dirt home field for the Shoreline Christian Crusaders would result in matches being contested in either dust bowl conditions or a muddy, quagmire of a mess. During several matches, balls placed for penalty kicks would float on mud puddles. Many a hard-fought battle was waged on this field before artificial turf was installed in 2008. 4. Bulldog Stadium, Mount Vernon WA. Used for numerous early morning summer turnouts, matches played here usually meant November and the postseason. Under the dazzle of the stadium’s bright lights, teams and supporters did not mind gathering in either cold and crisp or rainy weather. Afternoon matches played here brought rooter busses of MVC students up the hill for Tri-District action. 3. Jack Whitaker Field, La Conner, WA. Matches played on the Braves’ campus field were often intense, chippy, and always memorable. The field’s narrow width and short length, combined with the usual gusty winds, made one of the only night matches of each year, prior to the postseason, quite an experience. The venue was routinely a place where many MVC teams were recipients of La Conner supporter taunts intended to intimidate their county rival as they walked to and from the field. Through the seasons, MVC has had many tremendous outings here and team members have enjoyed collecting small pieces of sod from the field prior to their victorious departure. 2. Sunset Chev Stadium, Sumner, WA. The host site of the 1B/2B State Championships for many seasons, MVC has not always fared well when traveling to Sumner for their pair of Championship Weekend matches. But the ultimate experience occurred during the 2014 season when the Hurricanes earned a pair of back-to-back, come-from-behind victories to claim the program’s first 1B/2B State Championship, concluding a 22-0-0 record. The scoreboard at the end of the stadium was magnificently displayed in bright lights: Hurricanes 2, Tigers 1. This marked the only time in this WIAA classification history that a school had posted an undefeated boys’ soccer season. And of course, 1. Mount Vernon Christian Fields, Mount Vernon, WA. HOME! An almost magical place that has numerous great moments and where Hurricane teams have experienced an incredible amount of success. There have been three fields on campus, but each has afforded the Hurricanes a distinct, home-field advantage because of their nice width and length, along with great home crowds. The original field was situated where the present high school building is now positioned. During construction of the high school, the soccer field was re-positioned and ran west-to-east where the northern portion of the present middle school field is now located. The current field is situated along the retaining pond fence line, running north-to-south. From 2013-2017, Hurricane teams ran off a string of 32 consecutive home victories. |
Mount Vernon Christian Varsity Boys' Soccer 