Jake Hadaway Shines in Varsity Soccer Season

Jake Hadaway found his footing on the varsity soccer team for Naperville North, making a significant impact in his first and final season. Last year, Hadaway didn’t play on the Class 3A state championship team, nor on the top junior varsity team. This season, however, he has emerged as a crucial player.

On a notable Tuesday, Hadaway scored his team-leading third goal against local rival Naperville Central. Celebrating the achievement, Hadaway expressed, “I don’t think I’m gonna have any better feeling this season.” He recalled how his goal put the team ahead 1-0 in a match where they were considered underdogs. Such moments, he noted, are memorable.

His standout performance continued when he scored with just eight seconds left in the first half. With a long outlet pass from teammate Will Boniface, Hadaway found the net. Echoing their teamwork, in the second half, a deep cross from Hadaway led to another goal, this time scored by Boniface. Naperville North stunned Naperville Central, securing a 3-0 victory in the DuPage Valley Conference face-off.

Reflecting on the match, Coach Jim Konrad of Naperville North remarked, “We’re not three goals better than Central for sure.” Despite the early end of their 31-game unbeaten streak this season, the Huskies competed with vigor. The Redhawks, commanding much of the first half, failed to convert their plays into goals.

Naperville Central’s Coach Troy Adams commented on the nature of soccer, emphasizing the need for finishing touches in front of the goal. Dylan Healy, the sole returning starter, showcased this by extending the Huskies’ lead. A play by Ukiah Morris paved the way, as his shot ricocheted off the crossbar. Healy seized the rebound and secured a third goal.

Hadaway credited the team’s success to their collective efforts, saying, “Everybody built off each other, and everybody did the little things correct today.” Despite having fewer standout players, focusing on precision and teamwork earned them a decisive win.

The current roster largely comprises former JV2 players, enhancing team chemistry. Hadaway noted, “A lot of the players here I played with my freshman year, so I still have a lot of chemistry with them.” His formidable performance last year, scoring 28 goals for the JV2 team, serves as a testament to the strength of Naperville North’s squad.

Coach Konrad appreciated Hadaway’s determination, remarking, “There’s good soccer players, and there’s kids that just want to win. Jake is a good soccer player who wants to win.” Hadaway’s dedication was evident throughout the match.

Similarly, Boniface acknowledged the importance of teamwork this season given the departure of many players. He expressed appreciation for Hadaway’s gameplay, stating, “We just don’t really have a superstar, but we just have everyone playing together for each other.”

Reflecting on the game against Naperville Central, where Hadaway took a break, highlights the significance of teamwork and dedication in sports.