Eyes from across the country are on the Saint Ignatius soccer program entering the 2018 season, following three consecutive state titles from 2014-16 and a deep playoff run in 2017.
As a result, one of the Wildcats' most talented players has landed on a watch list amongst the top players in the nation.
Junior Matthew McLaughlin, a star midfielder for the Wildcats, has been named to the ALL-USA Preseason Boys Soccer team. That's a significant honor.
As USA TODAY explained in an article about the team:
"The American Family Insurance ALL-USA Preseason Boys Soccer Team for the 2018-19 season was selected in association with TopDrawerSoccer.com based on past performance, level of competition and strength of schedule. Only players from states that compete in the fall season were considered."
McLaughlin certainly fit the bill in each of the three categories. As a sophomore, McLaughlin helped to guide the Wildcats to the State Semifinal. And as a junior, McLaughlin will lead the Wildcats into a difficult schedule against some of the best teams from Ohio and the country.
McLaughlin drew attention last season for his team-best 15 goals and 9 assists. As a midfielder, McLaughlin displayed his talent for moving the ball forward, and a comfort in the final third of the field and at the net.
He will play a critical role for the Wildcats this season, following an impressive summer for his club team, Club Ohio. McLaughlin traveled to Texas for Nationals with his club team, facing off against some of the best in the country with teammate Kyle Folds.
McLaughlin's dad and Wildcats' head coach, Michael McLaughlin '85, feels a sense of pride in Matthew but knows the work is just beginning.
“Anytime someone from Ignatius finds themselves with national recognition, it’s great for the player and the school," the elder McLaughlin said. "It’s neat that it’s my son, and I’m proud of him. But like for all of the guys, I see his talent and want him to keep working and prove it every day. It’s an important piece of having the right attitude.”
Matt McLaughlin and the Soccer Cats will begin to prove it on Friday, as Avon Lake comes to Wasmer Field for the regular season opener. The match will begin at 7 pm, and will be covered live by the SIBN.