Champions Defined: Madison Central Boys Soccer Reflects on a Championship Season
In a season defined by resilience, leadership, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, the Madison Central High School boys' soccer team reached the pinnacle of Mississippi high school soccer by capturing the 2025 MHSAA Class 7A State Championship. Guided by Head Coach Cecil Hinds, the Jaguars not only claimed the title but did so by navigating challenges, seizing defining moments, and leaning on a mix of experienced seniors and emerging underclassmen.
Season Recap: Triumph Built on Challenge
The 2024–2025 campaign began with promise but not without early adversity. A 1-2 loss to Oxford in the opening stages of the season served as a crucial wake-up call. According to Coach Hinds, the defeat forced a reassessment in tactics and mentality. It was after this loss that the team rallied together—led by captains Braden Buchanan and Drew Raffaelle—and embarked on a remarkable 16-win stretch over their next 18 matches.
The Jaguars found their rhythm, anchored by strong performances from senior leaders and rising stars. Their dominance peaked during a 4-0 semifinal rout of Tupelo, showcasing complete control in possession, defensive discipline, and offensive depth. That win set the stage for the most dramatic moment of the season.
In the state final against Northwest Rankin, the Jaguars fought to a 1-1 draw, pushing the contest to an 8-round penalty shootout. Junior goalkeeper Bray Wilson, who emerged as a surprise starter midseason, made a game-saving stop, and junior Carson Pentecost buried the decisive penalty to secure Madison Central’s championship.
Key Contributors and Senior Legacy
At the heart of the Jaguars’ success was a senior class that combined performance with leadership. Braden Buchanan, a senior captain and offensive linchpin, contributed not only goals and assists but also an unshakable presence during high-pressure moments. He led the team with 62 shots and averaged 0.6 goals and 0.7 assists per match.
On the defensive end, co-captain Drew Raffaelle brought stability and intensity. A commanding force on the back line, Raffaelle played a critical role in organizing the defense, which allowed just one goal in the playoffs and recorded three clean sheets.
Supporting the senior captains were standout performers like Anderson Farrar and Ethan Duarte, who controlled the midfield and contributed timely goals. Together, this senior group fostered a culture of accountability and hard work that carried the team through the most trying stretches of the season.
Their impact went beyond the field. The seniors mentored underclassmen, instilled a "next man up" mentality, and helped guide the team through the transition to the new, more competitive Class 7A structure.
Breakout Stars and Rising Leaders
One of the most compelling storylines was the emergence of junior goalkeeper Bray Wilson. Initially not the team’s starting keeper, Wilson grew into the role and delivered when it mattered most—his composure in the state championship PK shootout was the stuff of legends.
Other juniors also made their mark. Tanner Nichols developed into a top-tier forward, finishing the season with 0.7 goals per match. Midfielders Ben Smith and Rob Bradley fortified the defensive line, while Walter Dever provided an offensive spark during critical injuries to key starters. Their contributions not only filled immediate needs but also offered a glimpse of the program’s future potential.
Perhaps most notably, Landon Dale closed out his junior year with an MVP performance in the state final, solidifying his reputation as a player to watch heading into next season.
Responding to Adversity: Injuries, Pressure, and Growth
Coach Hinds credited the team’s championship run to its depth and mental fortitude. Injuries late in the season forced tactical adjustments and tested the squad's resolve. Players like David Suruvka and Xan Barton stepped into larger roles, allowing the team to remain competitive without compromising performance.
The coaching staff also emphasized psychological readiness. Assistant Coach Seth Male introduced mindset-focused sessions that helped players handle pressure, particularly during the playoffs. The result? A poised, unified squad that thrived under the spotlight.
Leadership also evolved as the season progressed. Veterans like Buchanan, Raffaelle, and junior Tanner Nichols became more vocal and tactically involved, guiding the younger players and maintaining morale.
Building the Future: What’s Next for Madison Central?
Looking forward, Coach Hinds is optimistic. The 2025–2026 season will see a core group of returning players who have already proven themselves in big moments.
Bray Wilson will continue to anchor the goal, bringing confidence and experience.
Tanner Nichols is poised to become the offensive engine, backed by his pace and scoring instincts.
Landon Dale, already an MVP, will likely lead the midfield, while Walter Dever is expected to take on a central playmaking role.
Will Shoemake, a dual-sport athlete, brings balance and poise to the midfield, rounding out a strong senior class.
The culture established by the outgoing seniors remains a cornerstone. With strong mentorship from this year’s leaders, the rising class has a clear model of excellence to emulate.
Offseason Focus: Sharpening the Edge
Despite their championship success, Coach Hinds sees clear areas for growth:
Finishing Consistency: There were periods where the team struggled to convert chances. Expect focused offseason drills on shooting, 1v1 situations, and set pieces.
Defensive Restructuring: With Raffaelle graduating, the defensive unit will need to reorganize and develop chemistry with Wilson in goal.
Leadership Development: New voices will need to step up in the locker room. Look for structured leadership training and preseason team-building events.
Bench Depth: Developing rising sophomores and juniors will be key to maintaining internal competition and tactical flexibility.
Physical Conditioning: To keep pace in a fast, physical 7A division, offseason fitness and agility training will be a top priority.
Strong Start: The coaching staff wants to avoid a sluggish opening next year by emphasizing readiness from day one.
Final Thoughts: A Program on the Rise
The 2024–2025 season was not just a success—it was a statement. Madison Central proved they could rise to the moment, adapt to adversity, and perform under pressure. With back-to-back state final appearances (2023 and 2025), the program is entering a golden era.
The Mississippi House of Representatives recognized the team with a resolution honoring their accomplishments, further validating their impact on the community and state sports landscape.
With a championship banner raised and a new generation already making their presence felt, Madison Central isn’t just looking to defend a title—they're building a dynasty.
For stats, schedules, and player profiles, visit www.mcbigblue.com or check out the team’s MaxPreps page for in-depth analytics.
Written as part of the 2025 Winter Season Recap Series
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