Republic soccer recognizes senior class

Republic’s soccer team recognized six seniors before its home game against Rolla, Thursday. The six — Ethan Meyer, Zach Irwin, Gage Fisher, Connor VanMatre, Caleb Hicks, and Adrian Analla — are the first senior class for first-year head coach Jesus Zuniga. He said despite a trying season, the seniors have never stopped putting in work.

“They show up to every session wanting to get better, day by day, buying into the style of play we are trying to establish as a program. Our senior leadership and passion to better one another, not only on the pitch, but as people, will be missed,” Zuniga said.

Before their Senior Night varsity game against Rolla, the Tigers honored their six seniors: Ethan Meyer, Zach Irwin, Gage Fisher, Connor VanMatre, Caleb HIcks, and Adrian Analla. Zuniga said the six have continued to show support "when the ball doesn’t bounce our way.

“They have been so supportive in this transition, and I’ve apologized to them for only having one year to get to know them as individuals. They’ve supported me and are believing we can be a great team,” Zuniga said.

Republic suffered another disappointing loss on Senior Night, with Rolla scoring two second-half goals to beat the Tigers 2–0. Republic’s record is 2–14.

“Our record doesn’t reflect the talented group of boys we have, and I’ll always remember them for that — their will to check in every day and want to win.”