The Kaneland boys varsity soccer team defeated Sycamore 2-1 on Monday, Oct. 7, at Kaneland High School. The win comes after a 1-0 loss at Sycamore earlier in the season, and the teams are now tied for first place in the Interstate 8 conference.
Senior Jovani Ruiz scored Kanleand’s first goal with an assist by junior Abe Paulino, and senior Cameron Guernon scored the second with an assist by senior Matthew Mitchinson. Sycamore’s Aiden Sears scored their only goal.
“It feels good to win since we lost the other game,” Ruiz said. “It feels good to come back.”
Along with senior goalie Cooper Van Wagoner defending the goal, senior Nathan Scarpelli thwarted a Sycamore offensive attempt with a slide tackle and senior Riley Adams and junior Noah McKittrick blocked a free kick.
The game between the two rival teams was the first in two years where spectator conflict did not disrupt the event. The past two years, spectators were removed from Kaneland-hosted games because of disorderly behavior, and the police were called two years ago.
To combat any potential incivility, Kaneland administration “designated an area between the home and visitor seating area that [was] clear of all seating,” according to a message sent to Kaneland soccer parents through the sportsYou app. Dean of Students Noe Escamilla stood in this area during the game to ensure separation between spectators.
For some parents and athletes, though, the rivalry brings an exciting atmosphere to the games.
“It’s so much fun,” Kaneland boys soccer parent Mike Mitchinson said. “A lot of these kids know each other and the coaches know each other, so it’s an absolutely fun time.”
Rivalry also increases competition for the players.
“It definitely makes it more competitive,” Ruiz said. “It feels better to win against them.”
The teams can continue to vie for victories over each other in future soccer seasons and maintain their friendly feud.
“Any time you can beat Sycamore, it’s always a good day,” head boys varsity soccer coach Scott Parillo said.
