MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Arts & Sciences senior Will Hetrick crouched near the goal with the TSSAA Class A runner-up trophy at his side.
The spark plug for the Chattanooga school’s record-breaking boys’ soccer team took in the final moments of the Patriots’ incredible run ending at the Spring Fling.
For the first time in program history, CSAS reached a state final, but Gatlinburg-Pittman converted a pair of second-half penalty kicks in the 41st and 53rd minutes, then held on for dear life in a 2-1 victory Friday night at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex. It’s the third state championship for the Highlanders, who won their first title in 2018 before adding a second two years ago.
“Everyone before the season came together and was adamant about our team going as far as we have ever gone before, and that is exactly what we did,” said Hetrick, the team captain who had double-digit goals and a team-leading 26 assists while earning district and region MVP honors.
“It’s a shame we couldn’t come out with the win, but everything we accomplished this season and improved on from the past is enough for me. Win or lose, I am happy. I love my teammates, and this has been a fun ride.”