Crossings Christian Boys’ Soccer
Head coach: Gavin Crocker
2023 Record: 11-4
It’s an exciting time for Crossings Christian soccer. Coming off an 11-4 season, the team has more experience this year and head coach Gavin Crocker believes they have the players to clean up those four loses and make this a great season on the pitch.
“We were 11-4 last season; our team has a lot of experience returning for 2024. All four losses were by one goal,” said Crocker.
Now a month into the season, the team is 4-0 [based on reported scores] and have outscored opponents 18-4. The offensive output is the results of two great forwards in Kaden Laisle (Jr.) and Charlie Cook (Jr.). Last season Laisle scored 26 goals with nine assists while Cook scored 26 goals as well with six assists. Their offensive prowess is nearly impossible to stop.
But if it’s stops you like, look no further than goalkeeper Benton McKim (Jr.). Last season he recorded nine shutouts and has one so far this season. His play in the net allows the defense to play aggressive and get the ball to the offensive end.
Midfielders Michael Swisher (Sr.) and Harry Smith (Jr.) are two of the best at their positions. Swisher accounted for six goals and six assists last year while Smith scored three goals with four assists as a sophomore. Smith is known for his willingness to do all of the dirty work in the midfield, fight and win for the 50/50 balls, and bring his workhorse mentality to the pitch. Also look for Tyson McGraw (So.) at midfield who scored a goal with two assists as a freshman.
Defenders to watch include Bennett Baker (Jr.), Holden Manchester (So.), Shane Fischman (Sr.), Luke Olson (Sr.), Brayden Ayala (Jr.), Grayson Degraffenreid (Fr.), and Jonah Neher (Sr.). Sebastian Seabass (Fr.) is the back-up goalkeeper. Manchester is a big, physical player on the field at 6-foot, 195-pounds. His presence and physicality on the field makes it difficult for would-be scorers. Baker has excellent speed, plays tough and competes for every ball.
Other players to watch include Cal Furnish (MF, Jr,), Billy Christopher (F, Sr.), Harrison Daniels (MF, Fr.), Nolan Matthews (F, Jr.), and Rodrigo Barrios (F, Jr.). Matthews got into the scoring last season and is expected to have a solid junior campaign.
