Emporia High soccer is looking to build on a successful 10-win season, while hoping for a longer postseason run in 2026.
The Spartans were eliminated in the first round of regionals by Eisenhower last season, but head coach Victor Ibarra returns a talented roster with a large contingent of seniors.
Brayden Sailer leads the returning group after scoring 20 goals last season and earning Second Team All-Centennial League honors. Thiago Esquivel, Danny Magana and Braxton Pugh also return after receiving Honorable Mention selections.
Ibarra says the seniors will play a major role in determining how far this team can go.
Workouts reached an all-time high for EHS over the summer. Ibarra says watching the World Cup provided additional motivation for his players, who were eager to improve their own skills and take their game to another level.
The Spartans will also face a challenging schedule, including an appearance in the MKSN Showcase at Riverside Stadium in Kansas City. Ibarra believes the experience will give his players a memory they’ll never forget.
There will be plenty of new faces in the Black and Red this season. Ibarra is particularly excited to see what the incoming freshmen can accomplish and how they blend with the returning upperclassmen.
Emporia High opens the season September 1 at Chanute, beginning a campaign with high expectations following last year’s 10-win season.
