Whether it’s tending a net, planting some bushes or chopping winter firewood, Hinsdale Central’s John Shakon can get the job done.
The senior runs his own landscaping and firewood businesses, work that comes after his primary free-time focus of Red Devils soccer.
Shakon’s record-breaking work in goal was a primary reason Hinsdale took its first trip to the state quarterfinals in 32 years. A victory over preseason No. 1 New Trier in the quarters helped the Devils to a fourth-place finish.
Behind it all was a rock-solid Shakon, the last line of defense for the Red Devils. For his exceptional exploits in goal, Shakon has been named the Tribune’s first-team All-State goalie.
Everyone knew the Wisconsin-Milwaukee recruit was good. He had 14 shutouts this season to set a school record and also holds the school’s career mark of 24.
If fans didn’t know how good, he gave them a three-game demonstration at state in which he made 20 saves on the weekend, many of the spectacular variety.
“The crowds, that was a first-time experience for me, having that many people at one of my games,” Shakon said. “It made the games so much more fun to play in. Every time you’d make a save, you’d have people cheering for you.
“You’re not going to acknowledge it because you’re paying attention to the game, but you hear those things and it gives you a good feeling and gives you confidence too.
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“I felt I finished the year on a very, very high note, just the saves I was making. I look back on it and I’m thinking ‘Wow, I actually did that?’ “
Shakon did that and more. He was uncanny with his ability to come off his line at the right moment to break up plays or steal thought-to-be perfect through balls from opponents.
He contributed to the Red Devils’ attack with four assists by taking free kicks from the goal to past midfield, and with his powerful left leg he punted balls that bounded deep into enemy territory.
His activity on the soccer field mirrors his life.
“I always am trying to find something to do, whether its playing soccer or working,” the teenage entrepreneur said. “Over the summer I had a small landscape business. I cut and sell firewood. If I feel I can do the job, I’ll take down trees for neighbors.”
Hinsdale Central’s unexpectedly deep venture into the playoffs cut down on his wood-splitting time. He likes to have 10-12 cords for sale. He’s down to four. There’s little doubt the hard-working Shakon will rebuild his inventory. And there is little doubt how he will look back on his high school career.
“The biggest thing I take away … is how much fun I’ve had, especially with that group of guys,” he said. “I’ve played with them forever.
“I’ve always believed that we had the potential to do what we did. It was this year that we just went out and did it. And it was fantastic.”