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Alex Casanas, Hinkley-Big Rock, jr., GK
In his inaugural season as the Royals’ goalkeeper last year, Casanas allowed only five goals in seven conference games. Casanas was an all-sectional honorable mention. Hinkley-Big Rock coach Scott Bastain said the junior worked over the summer to improve his skills. “He has been working hard and he’s been standing out in practice for both his fitness and his work in the goal,” Bastain said.
Jameson Carl, Sycamore, sr. F
Carl, who scored 22 goals and earned 11 assists last year, will be more prominent in the Spartans’ attack this season. Coach Kevin Bickley moved the senior to the front line for more scoring opportunities. In 2023, Carl was an all-sectional selection and an Interstate 8 Conference co-player of the year.
Fernando Flores, Genoa-Kingston, sr., MF
Flores, who played on the back line last year, has been moved to the midfield to reinforce the Cogs’ attack. Coach Thomas Moore is confident Flores can make the transition and be a force in the team’s offense. “Fernando should be able to step up quite a bit this year. I’m looking for him to be the person that is leading the team in the midfield,” Moore said.
Mauricio Jasso, DeKalb, jr., F
As a sophomore last year, Jasso scored six goals and notched three assists on a defensive-minded team. Now, with a year’s varsity experience, coach PJ Hamilton is looking to the junior to increase his offensive output.
Matthew Mitchinson, Kaneland, sr., MF
An all-conference selection last year, Mitchinson scored five goals and earned eight assists. Coach Scott Parillo sees signs that the senior may improve his offensive output. “I think Matt’s playing really, really well, and he will have really outstanding year,” Parillo said.