The Vandegrift boys varsity soccer team advanced to the regional quarterfinals for the first time as a 6A school. The Vipers who ended the season with a record of 14-7-3 played Lake Travis on April 1 at Monroe Stadium.
“The Viper men’s soccer season came to an end Friday night after a historic season and playoff run,” said Jonathan Winship, VHS soccer head coach.
Lake Travis scored two goals in the first half. VHS played its best in the game’s final 30 minutes with gaining more possession and producing more scoring chances but Lake Travis ended up winning 2-0, pushing their team to 20-3 for the season.
2022 6a Area Champions: Vandegrift Viper soccer
By LYNETTE HAALAND
Four Points News
The Vandegrift Vipers were the 2022 District 25-6A Champions and advanced to the regional quarterfinal game last week making history for the VHS program.
Behind senior captains, Ethan Semelsberger, Diego Abele, and Conner Hehman, the boys had an impressive district record of 10-2-2, only conceding nine goals in district play, said Jonathan Winship, VHS soccer head coach. The team’s overall record was 14-7-3.
During the playoffs, 1-0 victories over Del Valle and SA Johnson propelled them to their first ever regional quarterfinal berth vs Lake Travis, who has been ranked as the #1 6A team in the state all season, Winship said.
“After a rough first half vs Lake Travis that saw the Vipers concede two goals, the boys turned it around in the second half and created numerous scoring opportunities,” he said.
But unfortunately for VHS, Lake Travis won the game 2-0.
“At the beginning of the season we were unsure if we would even be able to make the playoffs,” he added.
Not only did the program have a new head coach, many of the players had never played significant varsity minutes.
“Our success is a testament to who these boys are as people and competitors,” Winship said. “Even when things didn’t go according to plan, they were always able to adjust and compete.”
Winship added that the seniors are leaving the program in a great position with much to build on for next year. “We are very proud of our seniors and thank them for all they’ve accomplished.”
