Young soccer group working hard for big season

Over 22 seniors have graduated from the Tippecanoe boys soccer program over the past two years, so it is the changing of the guard as the Red Devils prepare for the start of the new season. 

Coach Joel Slyman finished up soccer camp last week with middle and high school players working on their game as they prep for the start of practice, which begins a week from Friday. It has been a productive summer for the returning players as they have worked hard with open field and enjoyed camp last week at Kyle Park.

“What I have noticed so far with open field and camps is guys are excited and hungry,” Slyman said. “We have 15 incoming freshmen with those 22 seniors graduating over the past two years so there is an influx of new guys trying to find their role. There are a lot of open spots and guys are hungry and excited to be a part of it.” “With so many seniors, the young guys have had to try and figure out who they are in the program, and it has been fun. We have had great attendance because they know there are spots open and we have high expectations.”

Not only have the kids been attending everything this summer, but Slyman also noticed good things about the incoming kids. “They have been through the system, been at camps and I have had them in school,” Slyman said. “They are in our little bubble, and they know what the tradition is and want to be a part of it.” Slyman was also very impressed with the camp that finished up last Wednesday.

“What has been fun is that alumni have come back and helped us, guys from our 2023 state championship team,” he said. “We had a good turnout with over 60 guys, and this is where we build the culture and camaraderie with each other. Everything was lined and goals were out, so thank you to the SAY soccer program.” The kids last week were taught the Red Devil way with a lot of things related to the program as they are suiting up this season or in the very near future. “That is a big part of things, our culture is set in July as the camaraderie is set in July and teaching them different skill sets and having a little fun to build toward the grind of the next three months,” the Tipp coach said. 

With practice starting next week, Slyman is ready to go. “This weekend will give us a barometer on where we are at,” he said, as his team played in a Northmont tournament last weekend. “We are taking on some good opponents and will see who wants to step up and be on varsity and on JV. It is an opportunity to take advantage of things.”