Valparaiso coach Mike Enghofer was philosophical in reflecting on the season and career of senior forward Jack Isroff.
A starter since his sophomore season, Isroff made an indelible mark on the program.
“The impact he’s had, it’s almost immeasurable,” Enghofer said. “As a coach, you don’t want to think anyone is irreplaceable. You have to figure out the next step. But he’s as close to irreplaceable as you can get.
“We’re so sad to see him go. Life is not going to be the same around the team without him in so many ways. I think the world of him. It’s hard to put into words how proud I am of him. I just love the kid.”
Isroff, the 2022 Post-Tribune Boys Soccer Player of the Year, increased his production each season — from 16 goals and nine assists as a sophomore to 22 goals and 13 assists last year to 25 goals and 14 assists this season.
“From an individual standpoint, I was happy with how this season went,” Isroff said. “I got into this mode where I was thinking, ‘This is my last time playing in this jersey. I want to remember my last season being special.'”
Isroff was undeterred as he faced even tighter marking.
“He was clearly in everyone’s game plan to stop,” Enghofer said. “It easily could’ve stifled him and created an obstacle. He just created a new piece to his game.”
Enghofer noted Isroff led the Duneland Athletic Conference in both goals and assists this season.
“That’s a rarity,” Enghofer said. “Typically, one guy leads in goals, and another guy leads in helping set them up. But he does it all. He’s so well-rounded — not only scoring, but he’s willing to defend and create for other guys. He’s smart and versatile, just an impactful and special player.
“He leads by example, vocally, emotionally, through habit each and every day. He’s a student-athlete, not just a soccer player. He’s such a good teammate.”
Both Enghofer and Isroff lamented the way the season unfolded overall for the Vikings (10-8-1). They lost in a Class 3A sectional championship game to Portage after they had lofty expectations that included seeking their first sectional title since 2012.
“We had some struggles, and when it all ended, it was heartbreaking,” Enghofer said. “You think about losing a really good class and player. But when you have time to let the dust settle, you appreciate more as a coach you were able to work with a kid like that.”
Isroff kept the results in perspective.
“From a team standpoint, it was an unfortunate season for many reasons,” he said. “But that’s how it goes sometimes. That’s the game. It’s unpredictable, and you never know.
“I’m happy with how my four years went. It was an unbelievable experience, and I will never forget it. I wish each year could’ve ended differently. I wish I could change it, but I can’t. You just take the memories and remember all the good times. It was a great four years, and I’m also excited for the next four years.”
Indeed, Isroff took the opportunity of his birthday Oct. 23 to commit to Gustavus Adolphus. The Division III program is undefeated this season and is ranked No. 5 in the latest national poll.
“He found a place that loves him and is ready to use him right away,” Enghofer said. “They’re taking care of him financially and academically and personally. It’s just really, really exciting and satisfying to see everything line up for him. And it’s happening all at the same time.
“I wish the world for him in his next phase. I know he’ll continue to excel because of the standard he holds himself to.”
Isroff has continued to practice six days a week with two club teams. Such dedication doesn’t surprise Enghofer.
“People see him scoring goals and creating assists, and obviously he’s a wonderful player,” Enghofer said. “But he does so much work nobody sees, and he deserves everything he gets. It still doesn’t do him justice how much he does, how much he puts into his craft and how much he sacrifices.
“It’s not an accident. That’s how you find success. All the hours he puts in away from the lights — training with us, training on his own. I can’t count the number of times he’s asked me to leave the ball bags after practice so he could do extra. That’s the kind of stuff that sets him apart.”