Benet: The bulk of lineup that posted a 13-1 record last spring has graduated, but Redwings return two all-conference players in sophomore defender Nick Roe and junior midfielder Nico Picha, who could be the team’s best attacker. They also welcome back senior forward TJ McVey, who spent last year in Spain.
Metea Valley: Senior midfielder Colin Bastianoni enters fourth varsity season as most experienced member of a young group that will have to outwork opponents. Senior goalkeeper Oscar Mejia and senior defender Joseph Fitzgerald are the only other returning starters from a team that went 4-7.
Naperville Central: Seniors Mateo Lopez and Evan King return to anchor a defense that allowed only six goals in 12 games last spring for the DuPage Valley Conference runner-up. All-conference defender Benjamin Tietjen moves to forward for his senior season, joining Joey LoDuca.
Naperville North: Huskies are state championship contenders again, but to win games this time, they will use a powerful offense as opposed to their usual stingy defense. Alex Barger and Cam Radeke are two of the best forwards in the state. Midfield of Tyson Amoo-Mensah, Jacob Ryu and Bryan Higgs is stellar.
Neuqua Valley: Coach Arnoldo Gonzalez is pleased with the blend of experience and youth. Forward Jack Georgi and midfielders John Pochyly and Harshit Gupta begin fourth year on varsity. Goalkeeper Nick Varrone and defender Ege Tunar are among a group of five sophomores.
Waubonsie Valley: Warriors return six starters from a team that finished 3-7-1. Their final eight games were decided by one goal. Senior midfielder Zach Stanley is the top offensive threat. Seniors Kadin Feese, Joseph Haddad and Callum Keller lead a veteran defense.
Matt Le Cren is a freelance reporter for the Naperville Sun.