Pacers top two state-ranked teams to conclude perfect campaign
The Switzerland County Pacer varsity soccer team completed its perfect regular season last week, defeating two other state-ranked teams to finish the year 16-0-0.
Southwestern
On Tuesday, September 27th, The Pacers defeated the Rebels by a score of 3-0.
“It was another big win for the Pacers,” coach David Todd said. “They set a team record for shutouts with nine. Last year’s team held the record with eight.”
Cooper Todd had two goals in the match; with Jacob Williams scoring the other goal. Levi Curlin and Ashton Purvis each contributed an assist.
Shawe Memorial
Switzerland County celebrated Senior Night on Thursday night, September 29th, with a victory over Shawe Memorial, 1-0.
The Pacers came into the game ranked #2 in Class 1A in the State in MaxPreps, whilc Shawe came in ranked #20.
The Pacers and the Hilltoppers played a tough, defensive game until senior Levi Curlin found the back of the net off of an assist by Cooper Todd with just 2:30 to play in the match.
The goal was scored after a penalty was called in the box, which created the opportunity for an indirect kick — which Switzerland County converted for the only goal of the match.
“The boys played with pressure, specifically over the last few weeks, but the pressure came from their own expectations, which is the best kind of pressure,” head coach David Todd said. “They used it to their advantage to remain focused and driven.”
The match also marked the final home match for the Pacer seniors, who were recognized during the match. This year’s seniors include: Levi Curlin, Landon Duckworth, Nathan Furnish, Aiden Griffith, Ryan Hughes, and Ethan Hussong.
The win finishes off the first conference championship in school history; and also marks the first undefeated season in school history.
Individually, Curlin ranks fifth in the state in assists; while Todd is ranked fourth in Indiana in goals scored.
In a strange twist of fate, even though Switzerland County defeated two state-ranked teams in the week, the Pacers fell in the Class 1A MaxPreps rankings, and they currently sit at #6 heading into Sectional play this week.
Shawe Memorial, even with the loss, rose one place to #19.
Southwestern closes its regular season ranked #26.