Summit High School’s boys soccer team kicked off its league schedule with a 2-1 victory over Hood River on Tuesday in Bend, Oregon. Junior forward Will Newton led the offensive charge, netting both goals and emphasizing the importance of team cohesion and shared responsibility.
Newton’s impact and team chemistry
Newton said the Storm’s success hinges on “trusting our guys to make the right pass, make the right turn to shoot, and getting everyone involved.” His first goal came after senior captain Zach Bradley’s aggressive drive past two defenders, delivering a precise pass that set Newton up for the finish. Bradley, who initially considered taking the shot himself, praised Newton’s scoring instincts.
Looking ahead after the win
Both Newton and Bradley acknowledged that the Storm could have secured a more comfortable margin. “Could we have won by more? Probably. Do we think we should have? Yeah,” Newton admitted, urging the team to treat the win as a learning experience. Bradley echoed the sentiment, noting that “you can’t play perfect the whole game,” but affirmed the victory as a positive step.
Defensive consistency continues
Summit’s defense, anchored by senior Quentin Swanston, built on last season’s remarkable record of 14 straight shutouts. The only goal conceded against Hood River came from a penalty kick; otherwise, the back line maintained tight communication and positioning. Swanston highlighted the role of practice dialogue, saying, “In practice, we talk a lot. We talk a lot in games, making sure we’re in the right place. That definitely helps us in the game and finding our marks.”
Building momentum
The Storm followed the Hood River win with another shutout on Thursday, beating Wilsonville 3-0. With strong performances on both offense and defense, Summit is shaping a cohesive unit that could contend for the league title. Coaches and players alike are optimistic that the early-season chemistry will translate into sustained success throughout the campaign.
Summit High’s boys soccer program continues to emphasize character development, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence—values that resonate with families and the broader Bend community.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
