The Westside Boys Soccer Team’s story isn’t over yet. After defeating Grand Island to win the A-4 District Championship, the Warriors have punched their ticket to the State Tournament. With an impressive 11-4 record, they’re looking to keep their momentum going, improve their record, and extend their tremendous season.

One of Westside’s main goals this season along with many others is to compete in the state championship. From the first practices of the season to the final whistles after each game, the team has continued to push themselves day by day.

“Going to state was one of our goals this year and it’s great to accomplish one of those.” Coach Mike Dean said.

“It was done very well tonight and I am happy with the boys and how they showed up in the first half.”

A key player to the Warriors success against Grand Island was Junior Everest Scherlizin. The center back had two goals for the warriors and was a huge contribution to the team and its big win.

“It means a lot to go to state and have another chance at a state final and hopefully a State Trophy.” Scherlizin said.

Along with Scherlizin, Senior Ellis Oksman also had two goals for the Warriors that game. But behind both of them was the team working tirelessly to win possessions, create opportunities, and defend against numerous chances created by the Islanders.

“It was a great team effort, a lot of passing and really playing our game and didnt live down to the other teams standards” Scherlizin said.

The warriors came out strong in the first half scoring many goals and also setting the standard for the rest of the game.

“We played very well, one of our best halves of the year,” Dean said. “Energy was great, style of play was great, finishing was great . We executed on the dead balls which is one of our goals every game. So having a 3-0 at half was a relief.”

It’s not everyday you see a center back score two goals in one game or even a goal at all.  

“​​How often do you see a center back lead a team in scoring on a day like today,” Dean said.

“I mean he’s our second team leading goal scorer, he is at the end of every corner and man he makes the most of it, couldn’t be more proud of him.”

The boys’ team is thrilled for the State Tournament, seeing it not just as another competition, but as a chance to leave everything on the field and make their mark.

“It’s a great chance we have going to state and I am happy to be here,” Scherlizin said. “We have every right to go play in the final and hopefully win it.”

The first round of state for westside is on Tuesday May 13th where the Warriors will face off against the Lincoln East Knights.