East Rankin Soccer: 2023-2024 Team Overview

As the MAIS boys soccer season begins to open up, a team to look out for is the East Rankin Academy Patriots. The Patriots finished the 2022-23 season one win shy of the playoffs, losing their last district game to Saint Joseph Catholic late in the season; This season, the Patriots defeated Saint Joseph Catholic 2-1.

The biggest advantage for the Patriots is their well-equipped senior class. East Rankin will have five graduating seniors. The biggest impact is Brax Rials, who moved from goalkeeper to midfield this season. With Rials at midfield, the Patriots will have more goal-scoring opportunities with his passing ability. Additionally, Rials collected a goal in the Patriot’s win against Saint Joseph Catholic. Another important senior for the Patriots is defender Cooper Loper. Loper, one of the most experienced backs, has allowed only minimal scoring opportunities defensively. Loper’s defense has been effective at shutting down runs by the wingers and shot attempts within the box.

East Rankin has multiple young up-and-coming players this year. Freshman midfielders Nick and Jon Riemann have added to the chemistry in the midfield and will allow the Patriots to move the ball upfield more efficiently. Winger Noah Craig will be crucial in the offensive third with his proficiency in dribbling and playmaking.

East Rankin’s district has also been restructured to their benefit. Last year, the Patriots had Saint Aloysius, Saint Joseph, Central Hinds Academy, and Park Place Christian in their district. This year, their district is composed of Copiah Academy, Brookhaven Academy, and Park Place Christian. As the Patriots were winless to Saint Aloysius and Saint Joseph, the new format will give East Rankin a great shot at being in the playoffs.

The Patriots' early win to Saint Joseph has only put them in the right direction this far in the season. With their well-rounded roster and new district layout, the Patriots will undoubtedly achieve success this year. Don’t be surprised if the Patriots make a playoff run this season.