LAKEVILLE - With 14 players returning from a 6-9-2 team in 2024, second-year LaVille boys soccer coach Keith Norman says his squad is off and running. Norman's crew opened the season with a scrimmage against the South Bend Navigators and are ready to get things started August 20 at Westville. "The Lancers have hit the ground running in training, wasting no time building momentum for the 2025 season," said the Lancer boss. "... they’ve already felt both the highs and lows a season can bring — and they’ve stayed together through it all." Among those returning are all-conference selections Ryan Maenhout and Remington Loftus for the Lancers to build around. "Between the posts, senior goalkeeper Ryan Maenhout — an INSC All-Conference selection — brings leadership, shot-stopping ability, and composure under pressure," said Norman when asked about the unit returning. "In the midfield, Remington Loftus, an All-Conference Honorable Mention, returns as the team’s leading scorer and on-field playmaker. Together, they set the tone for the squad. With 12 other returning players, the connections built last year should continue to grow, bringing a higher level of teamwork and trust." Norman understands the graduation losses but is looking forward to watching what transpires this season. "LaVille graduated five players from last year’s squad but returns 14, giving them a strong, experienced core to start the season.," Norman said. "Fans can expect a high work rate, relentless defensive aggression, and offensive players pushing the pace. The goal is simple: 100% effort, 100% of the time. If the Lancers can carry over last year’s momentum, the offense should flow more freely, combining returning experience with the energy of new talent. Defensively, the team remains strong, which should allow for more numbers joining the attack. The key will be mental toughness — keeping heads up, staying connected, and trusting each other." LHS allowed 2.3 goals per game in 2024, but Norman feels that LaVille's defensive experience could be better this time around. "Defensively, LaVille has a unit that could be even stronger than last year’s," said Norman.  "Collin “Taco” Andert and Brian Bergduhf return after holding their own as sophomores, while Isaac Beelby adds an attacking dimension from the outside back position, having contributed multiple goals and assists in 2024. A solid back line means Maenhout will face fewer shots, but when he does, fans can expect those highlight-reel saves and lightning-quick reflexes." Offensively, Norman sees a more balanced attack. "Up front, Loftus leads the attack with the support of returning offensive threats Jackson McNerney, Caden Wise, and Ryder Devon. Several freshmen have shown early flashes of potential, and the veteran leaders are working to bring them up to varsity speed. Expect a balanced attack, with improved scoring and more controlled possession." The final five matches of the 2024 season were a building point for LaVille as they head into 2025. "... the connections built last year should continue to grow, bringing a higher level of teamwork and trust," noted Norman as LaVille finished 2-1-2 to close the 2024 season. When asked about the Indiana Northern State Conference race, Norman responded, "Looking at the INSC race, the Lancers expect a challenge. Tippecanoe Valley, who LaVille beat twice last year, should be improved thanks to a young, motivated coaching staff and a maturing roster. John Glenn remains competitive, and Bremen continues to set the standard. If you can compete with Bremen, you can win the conference.  That’s a goal for this year."   LAVILLE BOYS SOCCER 2024 Record: 6-9-2 (1-4-1 INSC) Head Coach: Keith Norman (6-9-2 in second season) Assistant Coach: Tony Rowe Lost (5): Braeden Balmer, Kalib Belknap, Aiden Johnson, Nicolo Mitchell, Sam Sherk Returning: (15): Seniors - Isaac Beelby, Remington Loftus, Ryan Maenhout, Jackson McNerney, Zain Sattar, Caden Wise. Juniors - Colin Andert, Brian Burghduf, Ryder DeVon, Braxten Stone, Liam Stough. Sophomores - Ethan Beelby, Lucas McCormack, Hudson Rush Newcomers (10): Seniors - Eduardo Ponzellini, Asier Iraeta. Sophomore - Lucas Zahm. Freshman - Brendan Balmer, Kyler Christy, Luis Garcia, Noah Keen, Logan Harnish, Lucas Maenhout, Jamison Norman. Opener: Defeated Westville, 6-1 Next: Aug 23 v Mishawaka at Baker Park, 10am