Knoxville Boys Soccer Hungry To Continue Recent Success

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Knoxville's boys soccer team is eager to build on their successful 2025 campaign that ended with a trip to the state tournament. The Panthers return about half of their offensive production from last year's 60-goal season, with top scorers Cael Cook and Brett Watters leading the way. Coach Dylan Mick says this year's squad is a 'very hungry group' ready to step into bigger roles, including new varsity players like Tommy Buttell and Andrew Bailey. Defensively, the team remains solid with Drake Larson and Jadyn Deheer anchoring the back line, and Quentin VanderLinden taking over in goal after impressing late last season.

Why it matters

Knoxville boys soccer has established itself as a consistent contender in Iowa high school soccer, and the community is eager to see if the team can build on last year's breakthrough season. The Panthers' run to the state quarterfinals was a major point of pride for the town, and another strong campaign could further cement the program's status as one of the top teams in the state.

The details

Knoxville returns about half of the offensive production that resulted in 60 goals last season. Leading the way are top scorers Cael Cook and Brett Watters, along with new varsity contributors Tommy Buttell and Andrew Bailey. On defense, the team remains stout with Drake Larson and Jadyn Deheer patrolling the back line, and Quentin VanderLinden taking over in goal after impressing late in the 2025 season.

• The Panthers' 2026 season will get underway on Monday, March 31 against Southeast Polk.
• In 2025, Knoxville reached the state tournament quarterfinals before falling to eventual champion Gilbert.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Knoxville boys soccer team will open their 2026 season on Monday, March 31 against Southeast Polk, a team they tied with last year.