Cuyahoga Heights returns seven starters from last fall, leaving fifth-year head coach Matt Natal confident the Red Wolves can improve upon last season’s record.
Despite winning just three games and big shoes to fill up top and in the net, Natal believes his squad will be vastly improved.
“The team has good potential to improve on last year’s record,” he said. “The goal is working our way up to a .500 team.”
To do that, Natal is focused on creating scoring opportunities and locking down the net.
The latter will be the responsibility of sophomore Antonio McCladdie, who recorded 37 saves in nine games last season.
“(He’s a) young goalkeeper, but extremely talented,” Natal said. “He has a very high ceiling.
As far as the goal-scoring is concerned, senior forward Maddox Jones and midfielders Sam Meyer, a senior, and Nick Dabrowski, a junior, will lead the charge.
Jones scored three goals with one assist last fall on the way to earning honorable mention All-Chagrin Valley Conference Metro Division honors.
“Maddox is a lengthy striker with good ability to keep high pressure on defenders and an aerial threat in the box,” Natal said.
Meyer posted two assists last fall while Dabrowski uses his small frame and instincts to set up his teammates.
“Sam is the senior leader in the middle of the field. His ability to change games physically will be huge this year,” Natal said. “Nick is growing into a great midfielder each year. His small stature allows him to be shifty and has great vision.”
Junior Darby Porter will anchor the defensive line.
“Darby is a physical defender,” Natal said. “He rarely puts his other backline members in a tough spot.”
