Inside Lightridge’s State Title Defense

How Westfield Won a State Championship

Tonight I'm joined by members of the 2026 Westfield state championship soccer team: head coach Drew Wiltse, forward Ethan O'Connor (James Madison), midfielder Joel Geraban (Bridgewater), and center back Reyes Torres (Shepherd).We discuss the Bulldogs' remarkable season, one that began with major graduation losses and plenty of questions but ended with a Class 6 state championship. Along the way, Westfield navigated one of the toughest paths in Virginia soccer, defeating some of the state's top programs before capturing the title against Concorde District rival Madison on Elroe Takele's unforgettable Olimpico.We also talk about the rivalries and challenges that shaped the season, including matches against Madison, Washington-Liberty, Grassfield, Gar-Field, and South Lakes. Most importantly, we explore how this group continually found ways to win when the margins were smallest and the pressure was greatest.Fresh off a championship run, these players and coaches share the stories, memories, and moments behind the most memorable season in Westfield soccer history.

Inside Lightridge’s State Title Defense

In this episode, I’m joined by members of the defending Virginia Class 5 state champion Lightridge Bolts: Dylan Conti (‘27, Midfielder), Pranabh Malla (‘27, CDM), Brayden Moyssiadis (‘26, CB), and Caden Perkins (‘27, CB).We reflect on Lightridge’s remarkable championship run, revisit key moments from both this season and last year’s title campaign, and discuss the challenge of trying to go back-to-back as state champions.The players also break down the growing rivalry with Riverside — including last year’s dramatic regional final upset that propelled the Bolts toward a state title — and preview another massive postseason showdown between the two Loudoun powers.We also discuss coach David Cesnik, balancing club and high school soccer commitments, the coaches and role models who have shaped their development, and the keys to returning to the state final once again.A really enjoyable conversation with a talented group of young men who carry themselves with the confidence, composure, and humility of champions.

Inside Yorktown Girls Soccer’s Title Push with Coach Hannah Davis

On this episode, I’m joined by Hannah Davis, whose Yorktown High School Patriots completed an undefeated regular season and enter the postseason among the favorites to compete for a state title.We discuss how this year’s side compares stylistically and emotionally to some of her other outstanding teams, the chemistry and selflessness of the current group, and why positional versatility has become such an important part of Yorktown’s identity. Coach Davis also reflects on how parenthood has influenced her approach to coaching, the evolving relationship between high school and club soccer, and the challenge of balancing confidence, pressure, and togetherness during a playoff run.We close by discussing the unique emotional stakes of postseason soccer and what a third state championship under her leadership—and a fourth in program history—would mean to both her and the Yorktown community.Always a pleasure catching up with Coach Hannah.

Indy 2026: Can They Repeat?

In this episode, I’m joined by defending Virginia Class 5 state champion Independence Tigers as they prepare for a new challenge: moving up to Class 6 while attempting to repeat as state champions.Joining me are three-time state champion head coach Ann Vierkorn, Emily Marlovits (‘26, CM), Kendall Bronaugh (‘26, CB), Kimi Zoder (‘27, CM), Morgan Blelloch (‘28, Wing), and Addy Frazzetti (Jr., CM).We reflect on Independence’s magical championship run, discuss the pressures and expectations that come with defending a title, and explore how this year’s group differs from last season’s team. We also talk about life in the Cedar Run District, competing against Prince William County powers rather than Loudoun rivals, and the keys to making another deep postseason run at Virginia’s highest classification level.Coach Ann and the players were outstanding guests — a fun, thoughtful conversation and another great hour of Northern Virginia high school soccer.Thumbnail photo by Noor Hussain

Riverside’s Senior Stars on Redemption, Rivalries & Chasing a State Title

This episode features Riverside’s senior leaders from the Class of 2026 — Reid Bancroft (UVA), Thomas Ryan (Auburn), Jake Stavrou (Virginia Tech), and Jake Winans (JMU).We revisit last year’s heartbreaking state semifinal loss, discuss how this year’s team has forged a new identity, and preview a massive showdown with defending state champion Lightridge. We also talk rivalries, culture, leadership, and what a state title would mean to Riverside.The players close by sharing why they chose UVA, Auburn, Virginia Tech, and JMU.One of the strongest programs in Northern Virginia soccer — and a great conversation from start to finish.