After a 0-4-1 start to the season, the Ranger boys varsity soccer team knew something needed to change in order to turn its season around. That change came in the form of two huge back-to-back wins on the road against Cedar Springs and a very good East Grand Rapids team. Both game-winning goals were scored by senior Reese Walli, and FHC won 2-1 in both games.

After a tough loss to the #1 ranked team in Division 1, Forest Hills Northern, the Rangers had a remarkable turnaround by going on a seven-game winning streak and defeating top-notch competition like Lowell, Northview, and Portage Northern.

“I feel like we hit our hot streak because we were all very angry that we were losing these games,“ junior Sammy Postlewait said. “We decided as a team that we were done losing and really started playing harder and being more prepared for games.”

Sammy served as a big offensive contributor for FHC, but he also got help from seniors Kai Hagedorn and Alec Norris, along with Reese. The offense served as a positive for Rangers this season, averaging around 3 goals per game.

“I feel like personally, I had a good season because of my brother Caleb, who was the coach,” Sammy said. “He and I have a very good relationship and I feel like he pushed me to have a good season.” 

On the defensive side of the ball, junior goalie Kyler Williams had a phenomenal season for his first year playing varsity soccer. The strong defensive squad also featured senior Geoffrey Batterbee, who provided veteran leadership for the entire defense. The defense allowed around 2 goals per game.

“I think that we had really good coaching and chemistry among the players,” Kyler said.

FHC finished with a final record of 10-8-1 and overall had an incredible turnaround to the season. FHC defeated an extremely good Rockford team in the opening round of Districts 1-0 but later fell to a very talented Caledonia team by a score of only 1-0.

Sammy looks forward to his senior year, as he aims to be a leader both on the field and vocally.

“I feel like I can personally work on being a better captain by talking to everyone and getting them ready for games,” Sammy said.

Kyler is also looking forward to his senior year, as it is an opportunity for him to win one last OK White championship and be a strong leader on next year’s team.

“Next year I personally want to be more commanding of my defense,” Kyler said. “As a senior and a goalkeeper, it will be my job to keep us organized and sharp.”