By Matt Browning

The Newton soccer team got a taste of success last season, by getting to the Class 5A Final Four. The Railers lost to St. Thomas Aquinas in the third place game.

With so many talented players returning this year, Newton has its sights set on much more this year.

“We always have the goal of getting to the Final Four, but this year is to challenge Maize South and Derby for the conference title and win our bracket in the Titan (tournament),” Newton head coach Scott Jantzi said. “We want to continue to compete at the highest level.”

Jantzi said last season was an amazing ride for his team and they are up to the challenge of replicating that success this season.

“We have a solid defense and creative attacking players that will keep opponents guessing,” Jantzi said. “We have to keep those top teams out of our net and have success breaking down their defenses.”

The Railers return first team all-league selection Victor Medina, as well as second team all-leaguers Jonny Galvan, Chris Abrego and Juan-Pablo Salgado.

Medina scored 16 goals in 2022, which was second on the team. Galvan and Salgado combined for 13 goals and 14 assists. Abrego, a center back, anchored the defense to nine shutouts.

“Success would be a 10-plus win record, winning another regional championship, and competing with Maize South and Derby for the conference championship,” Jantzi said. “If we can stay healthy, we have a good shot.”