In 2019, the Minot boys soccer club posted a season mark of 6-9-2. This past year, the Magicians improved dramatically, accumulating an overall record of 10-4-2, highlighted by a 1-0 win over Dickinson in the WDA State Qualifier on Oct. 3.

In their next contest, which took place in the state quarterfinals, the Magicians were competitive against West Fargo Sheyenne. Leading 1-0 at one point in the match on the strength of a Walter Markle goal in the first half, Minot would eventually lose 2-1, which put an end to their 2020 campaign.

The Minot Daily News reached out to Magicians’ head coach Creighton Bachmeier to get his thoughts on the club’s performance at state, which players had the greatest impact, and a synopsis on the long term potential of the program. Here is what Bachmeier had to say via email.

What were your expectations heading into the state tournament, and did your team meet those expectations?

Bachmeier: Our expectation going into the state tournament was that we had a side that was capable of winning three games, but was going to take contributions from every player each match. We knew we had our hands full with West Fargo Sheyenne. Unfortunately, we were not able to hold on to our lead and lost the game 2-1.

Who are the top players on your team, and could you assess their overall performances at state?

Bachmeier: A couple of guys that we relied on heavily throughout the year were Ezra Hagerott, Reegan Meyer and Walter Markle. Ezra was dynamic from the get go as he was able to draw a penalty kick. Walter stepped up and put home the penalty kick and worked his tail off in the middle part of the pitch. Reegan Meyer has been a rock for us on the back line, and throughout the match he demonstrated why he is one of the best defenders in the state.

Aside from those standout players, who are some of the other boys that also made their presence known throughout the season?

Bachmeier: In highly competitive matches, I think it is important to see what underclassmen are able to handle the pressure and stay within the game. Brayden Oswalt and Nick Hynson were able to do just that. They never let the moment get too big and allowed their abilities to take over.

Given this new era of social distancing, what kind of impact did that have on the actual competition at state?

Bachmeier: Matches were played as normal. Everything felt and looked the same as it always had. I know our boys took wearing masks and being ND Smart seriously. We wanted to do everything we could to play soccer and complete the season.

Looking ahead to next season, can you describe the overall direction of the program and where things are headed?

Bachmeier: Minot High soccer is trending in the right direction because of the leadership from this past year’s senior class. They were an inclusive bunch that knew how to work. This type of mentality will have a positive impact on younger players. We have vibrant youth soccer programs here and I am excited for the future of Minot High soccer.

How many seasons have you been the head coach at Magic City, and what is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

Bachmeier: I just completed my seventh year as head coach. The most rewarding part of my job is I get to go and compete, whether a match or in training, with kids who care about each other. I am incredibly grateful that I get to build relationships with these players through competition.