With the pain of a disappointing finish in the state championship game last fall (a 1-0, 4-3 shootout victory by Gahanna Lincoln) transformed into a firm determination to avenge the loss, this year’s Wildcat Soccer team is poised to make another run at the state title.

Typical of the ‘Cats in all sports, the soccer team dodges no one in the regular season and will take on the best competition the state, and region, have to offer.

Within the first week of the season the team will look to defend its Ohio Jesuit Cup championship in Toledo against perennial rivals Walsh Jesuit, St. Xavier and St. John’s Jesuit. Later in September the Wildcats will travel to Indianapolis for the Brebuf Jesuit Tournament, where they will face St Louis University High School and Louisville St. Xavier. Pennsylvania’s Erie Cathedral Prep will visit Wasmer renewing a rivalry which dates back to the ‘90’s.

Closer to home the Ignatius side will face their traditional rivals and playoff opponents Strongsville, St. Edward and Massillon Jackson.

A tough schedule indeed, made more difficult by the graduation of 13 of last year’s seniors. But this year’s senior class is more than ready for the challenge.

Led by Luke Blades, Ryan Ivancic, Yanni Saris, Greg Kurtz, Cody Dawson and Matt Petrella, the seniors are prepared to take up the mantle of leadership. They will be supported by a talented group of underclassmen headed by juniors Zach Martin, Matt Foldesy and Brendan Cash, and sophomores Ty Sanda and Nate Fahey.

The last several years have been characterized by the best fan support in the area from the student body and the wider community. The players and coaches ask for your continued support and in return promise to play some of the best, most entertaining, competitive soccer in the state.

Coach McLaughlin ’85 is assisted by Danny Crew ’99, Mark Blades ’06, Joe Popelka ’84, Jim Brennan ’85, Tara Henderson, and Paul Kobe ’79.