Stewart Johnson
Led by a quartet of offensive stars including District Co-Offensive Player of the Year Chais Dickens, the Carroll boys soccer team provided a balanced approach on both sides of the pitch. The team was also laden with the experience of 20 seniors that helped them to finish runners-up in District 4-6A and clinch a playoff spot despite key injuries.
The Dragons (16-7-2 overall) played tough defense that enabled them to finish second in district in goals allowed (16 goals) while giving up a paltry 1.24 goals per game for the season. They also took advantage of their opportunities on offense.
The Dragons scored 54 goals for the season (2.16 per game), led offensively by Dickens (12 goals, five assists). Adding to Carroll’s scoring attack were seniors Peter Bazan (nine goals, eight assists) and John Carr (eight goals, six assists), as well as junior Charlie Su (seven goals, six assists).
Senior goalkeeper Alex Hall surrendered just 17 goals in 24 starts (0.71 average) and was named Co-Goalkeeper of the Year in District 4-6A.
Although the Dragons lose a large number of team members to graduation, 10 players return next season, including eight current sophomores.
“They weren’t just along for the ride — they were either starting or getting substantial minutes over the course of the season,” Carroll coach Chris Padilla says. “I think the mentality of the players that are going to be returning puts us in a really good position to fill that void.”
As reported on May 18, 2023.