Building a Legacy: West Marion High School’s Inaugural Boys Soccer Season Kicks Off with Heart and Promise
The 2025 winter sports season marked a milestone at West Marion High School: the birth of its first-ever boys varsity soccer program. Under the leadership of Head Coach Kade Lear, the team stepped onto the field not just to compete, but to lay the groundwork for what will become a defining part of the school’s athletic culture. While the win column remained elusive, the season was far from unsuccessful. It was a season of growth, grit, and history-making moments.
A New Beginning: First Goal, First Game, First Season
One of the most emotional and symbolic moments of the season came early. Senior Carlos Jimenes, who had waited his entire high school career for the chance to represent West Marion on a soccer field, etched his name into the school’s record books by scoring the first goal in West Marion soccer history. For Jimenes, the moment was more than just a goal—it was a culmination of years of patience and passion.
“He’s been waiting his whole high school career for this,” said Coach Lear. “It meant a lot to him and to all of us.”
Another standout story of the season was junior Jaxsen Crawford, who began the season with minimal soccer background but quickly became one of the team’s most versatile and reliable athletes. Whether playing defense, midfield, or stepping up into an attacking role, Crawford trained relentlessly during his personal time and set a high standard for work ethic and adaptability.
A Strong Start Sparks Hope
Despite entering the season with a roster built only weeks before the opening match, West Marion started strong. In their first official game, the Trojans faced off against a well-established local city school. To the surprise of many, they held their own and secured a 1-1 draw, a result that instantly injected belief into the young program.
“The confidence we gained from that match carried us through the rest of the season,” Lear noted. “It showed the team that they could compete, even without years of experience.”
That moment became a turning point in the season, not because it launched a winning streak, but because it validated the team’s efforts and inspired them to push through future challenges.
Defensive Development and Unyielding Grit
As the season progressed, the team’s defense emerged as a major strength. Leading the charge between the posts was goalkeeper Cainen Martin, who played every minute of every match—a testament to his endurance, resilience, and commitment. His consistency gave the team much-needed stability.
The back line, composed of Branson Hawk, Tom Foster, Caleb Clark, and Joshua Eaton, began the season with limited experience. But through sheer determination and teamwork, they transformed into a dependable unit that grew stronger with every match.
“Our defense really brought a lot to the team as the season progressed,” Coach Lear said. “They learned to work together and keep our goal secure.”
Adversity and Resilience
No first season is without its growing pains, and the Trojans certainly faced theirs. Multiple players went down with injuries, and the team suffered a few heavy losses, including a couple of 7-0 defeats. But what stood out most was how the team refused to give up.
Rather than hanging their heads, the Trojans responded to each challenge with creativity and camaraderie, filling gaps left by injured players and finding ways to adapt.
“We found ways to stay strong,” said Lear. “They never gave up, and that says everything about who they are.”
This resilience was bolstered by the leadership of the senior class. Yael, Carlos, Branson, and Sam brought more than just skill to the field—they brought energy, encouragement, and guidance. As the program’s first senior class, their impact on the younger players and the team’s culture will resonate for years to come.
Eyes on the Future
Though the season ended without a win, Coach Lear couldn’t be more excited about what lies ahead. The foundation has been laid, and the returning players have already shown significant growth in skill, understanding, and teamwork. More importantly, the excitement around the program is beginning to build.
“I look forward to seeing each and every one of them grow,” said Lear. “It’s the most rewarding thing as a coach to see a player improve.”
He also hopes to see more students take an interest in joining the team, either on the field or as supporters in the stands. “I look for the program to gain more of a following,” he added. “The students deserve to see how much fun this game can be.”
Offseason Focus: Building Stamina and Strength
One of the biggest takeaways from the season was the need for improved conditioning. With the team forming just weeks before the season started, there was little time for proper physical preparation. Now, with a full offseason ahead, Coach Lear is prioritizing stamina and conditioning to ensure that his players are ready to perform at their peak from day one next year.
“We’ll be ready next season,” Lear promised. “This offseason will be all about preparing their bodies to match the heart and effort they’ve already shown.”
A Program on the Rise
West Marion’s first soccer season may not have ended with trophies, but it achieved something far more meaningful: it ignited a new chapter in the school’s athletic history. Through perseverance, teamwork, and the unshakable belief that growth is more important than results, the Trojans laid a foundation that future teams will build on for years to come.
Coach Lear sees nothing but potential ahead: “With our returning players and incoming talent, we’re only going to get better. We’re at the beginning of something special.”
Stats and Recognition
For those interested in following the progress of the team, individual and team statistics can be found on MaxPreps under West Marion Boys Varsity Soccer. There, fans can track the growth of players like Crawford, Martin, and the next wave of Trojans ready to make their mark.
In the end, West Marion’s first season was about more than wins or goals—it was about laying the groundwork for a competitive and spirited soccer program, one that students, families, and the community can rally behind. And by all accounts, they’re off to a promising start.
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