Nickerson, Scott
News from Elmore Autauga
One of the greatest seasons in the program’s history was experienced by Prattville’s boys soccer team. Tuscaloosa County, Thompson, and Hillcrest Tuscaloosa lost to the Lions in the Class 7A Area 5 Championship. With a staggering 13 shutouts in 23 games, the Lions finished 18-4-1. The Lions progressed to the Class 7A quarterfinals after defeating Hoover in the Class 7A Playoffs. In the final post-season poll, they were rated third in Class 7A at the end of the season, just behind the two teams that participated in the state championship. In addition, Prattville was placed fifth in the Super Poll, which takes into account teams from all seven of the state’s classes. Because of that accomplishment, Trevor Ledkins, the head coach, has been selected the Autauga County Soccer Coach of the Year by Elmore Autauga News.
“I feel privileged to have been chosen as Coach of the Year,” Ledkins remarked. Our achievement was largely due to the senior leadership and Colin Salle, my assistant coach. It was an extremely enjoyable squad to coach because I knew that my guys would rise to the occasion when I pushed them during practice and competition. Coach of the Year is undoubtedly a team honor, and our success was largely due to our outstanding players, assistant coaches, and parents.
The Alabama Sports Writers Association chose four of Ledkin’s players for their All-State selections. Out of all the players in the state, regardless of class, Ben Green was selected to the First Team Super All-State. Austin Ledkins and Levi Smith were named to the Class 7A 2nd Team All State, while Adam Green was named to the Class 7A 1st Team All State.
A formidable senior class led the Lions. Additionally, the strength of the soccer program was demonstrated by the record eight seniors who signed college scholarships to continue their soccer careers after high school as a result of their on-field accomplishments.
“It’s incredible to have eight senior college soccer players signed,” Ledkins remarked. To prepare them for collegiate soccer, these signees have also received excellent coaching and training in club soccer. All of our freshmen can aim to meet the high standards these guys set for our program. They achieved great academic success in addition to great athletic success. Being able to mentor these exceptional young guys makes me incredibly proud.
