David Shutts

The seniors on the boys’ varsity soccer team pose for a group photo.

The boys’ varsity soccer team from Kinkaid faced off against St. John’s on Feb 2.

The stakes were high as the outcome of this game would decide the seeds for the upcoming SPC tournament. 

It was also senior night, marking the last regular season matchup for players who are graduating. This generation of soccer players in their final year led Kinkaid to an SPC championship during their freshman year and to a final in their junior year

The game, however, didn’t start off the way the Falcons wanted. After giving up a penalty on a handball, St. John’s rattled it into the net during a penalty kick. 

Kinkaid came out the half with new vigor and determination. After pressing and attacking for 20 minutes, a header by senior Ryan Stubbs gained the Falcons a corner. 

Italian exchange student Davide Schmutz curled the ball back into the box. The ball flew past the defenders and bounced right in front of the keeper, who failed to read the spin and smashed it into the goal. The crowd and players erupted in celebration. 

 “The team and I put in all our effort and the goal was the result,” Schmutz said. 

From there on, the momentum shifted and Kinkaid tried several times to net another ball to no avail. After the final whistle blew, the Falcons shook hands and celebrated gaining the No. 1 seed in the South Conference of the Southwest Preparatory Conference in a thrilling 1-1 tie. 

Mr. Ted Curry, Upper School history teacher and game announcer, led the senior night celebration after the game, introducing seniors Ammar Ali, Grant Smith, Mathew Schafer, Stubbs, Grant Peterson, Eric Wang, Chris Kositprapa and Nicholas Maragos. A family member or parents accompanied each player and took pictures with the coaches.

During the ceremony, Mr. Curry listed each player’s favorite moments, coaches’ quotes and favorite teammate. A team photo and cookies capped off the ceremony. 

“It was sorrowful for me as this is the culmination of my soccer career,” Schafer said.

Coach Curt Brooks agreed.

 “It’s great to see the guys get recognition for their hard work, but it’s bittersweet to see this group go and I wish them the best of luck,” he said.

The atmosphere was filled with nostalgia and pride, marking the end of an era for the seniors. The Night, although chilly, was a beautiful tribute, a celebration of their achievements and a send-off filled with hope and best wishes for their future endeavors.