The soccer regular season is winding down, and the D.C. area is still crowded with teams that have every reason to believe this is their year. These midseason rankings feature 10 of them, all of whom are either undefeated or have just one loss.
These teams have dominated their respective corners this fall. With so many strong resumes, several could make a case as the area’s top team. But at this point, a Washington Catholic Athletic Conference contender looks to be the best.
Coming into this season, The Heights Coach Colin Gleason knew he would have to assemble a tough schedule. He was returning 13 seniors, the most he has ever had on one varsity team, and he knew they would be hungry for competition.
“It makes such a big difference,” Gleason said. “These guys know the program, know the system, and they bring such experience and leadership. … Also, we’ve exited the playoffs on penalty kicks in back-to-back years now. So it’s a great combo of experience with a lot of desire.”
The Cavaliers opened the year with four nonconference game, three of which came against opponents from the Interstate Athletic Conference. After earning impressive wins against Bullis, Landon and Georgetown Prep, The Heights opened WCAC play with a scoreless draw with DeMatha. It has won five straight since.
“We’ve had such good balance this year,” Gleason said. “Thirteen different goal-scorers. I told the team that we’re winning by committee right now, and that’s how it should be.”
It is one of four undefeated teams in these rankings, joined in that elite tier by Northwest, Severna Park and Howard.
(All records through Sunday.)