The Mid-Prairie boys soccer team will be on the pitch for the first time this season when they travel to Solon to battle the Spartans in a preseason scrimmage.

The Golden Hawks gained valuable experience last season, in a year that could be defined as a rebuilding season. The Golden Hawks battled injuries and other adversity to finish 5-8 with a very young team.

The Golden Hawks welcome back key pieces including leading scorer Ricky Vargas, who finished last year with seven goals and this year’s team captain Ryan Harapat. Other key returners include David Bayliss, Jason Tew, Caden Brown, Jose Juarez, Camden Marner, Byron Yoder, Jacob Tappan and Will Swailes. The Golden Hawks have also accepted Sigourney into their co-op, adding quality depth and skill at key positions.

A year ago, the Spartans finished 11-8. Solon returns leading scorer Ben Carr for his senior year. Carr was also second on the team a year ago with eight assists. Solon did graduate the majority of their offense from last year’s team, with 30 of their 46 goals scored by last year’s seniors.

These teams have not met since 2015 when Solon blanked the Hawks 3-0. Action begins tonight at 6PM at Solon High School.