Following a successful 2024 campaign, the Belmont Hill Varsity soccer team looked to build on its success in Mr. Montoya’s final season as head coach. Under the leadership of captains Sam Lawrence ’26 and Jack Bartlett ’26, the team entered the season eying the ISL title and a deep NEPSAC playoff run.
They started exceptionally, winning their first six games, including the first three league matches, to sit atop the table heading into a top-of-the-table clash at home against Rivers. However, the team let a lead slip away in the dying moments of the match and drew 2-2. The result began a downturn in form that saw the squad win just two of their next eight games, while struggling to create chances and put away inferior teams.
Following a tactical tweak from the coaching staff to move winger Adonai Samuel ’26 to the center of the pitch and play a more direct and high tempo style, the team produced better performances. Notably in the second half against league runner ups Milton, they fought back to draw 3-3 after being down 3-1 at halftime, helped by a clever backheel finish from left back Andrew Lyon ’26.
An upturn in form saw the team finish fourth in the table off the back of strong seasons from forwards Adonai Samuel ’26 and Jack Bartlett ’26.
However, the poor results in October led to the team meeting league winners Nobles in the first round of the NEPSAC playoffs. Injuries to key players, including goalkeeper Harry Lavoie ’27, hampered the squad, which lost 2-3 despite playing against 10 men after an early red card.
Despite not winning silverware, the season was a success, and The Panel congratulates Mr. Montoya on a stellar career.
