Carter Nicholson is the most established of the group. The report says the Coal City goalkeeper started during the program’s first run to the state tournament, which ended with a third-place finish.
Coal City must replace a large senior class, making Nicholson’s organisation and experience particularly important. His ability to preserve narrow leads could determine whether the Coalers remain competitive at the highest level.
Angel Cruz gives Kankakee a proven attacking outlet after a historic 2025 campaign. The report credits him with 22 goals and 11 assists, helping the Kays finish 8-0 in conference play and post their best overall record.
Cruz will be expected to step forward after playing behind his older brother, Alexis, in the team’s internal scoring rankings. Kankakee also won its first Southland Athletic Conference title, raising expectations for the season ahead.
At Herscher, Rowan Keigher arrives after producing 23 goals and 17 assists, numbers that reportedly ranked second on the team. His combination of scoring and chance creation should keep the Tigers dangerous despite the departure of senior attackers.
Dylan Polito helped Manteno record 13 shutouts as a sophomore and earned All-ICE and All-Sectional recognition, according to the report. His defensive reading will be tested as opponents target the Panthers.
Jack Watters started every match at centre-back for Bradley-Bourbonnais, contributing to eight shutout wins. The Boilermakers conceded once across five area matches, and Watters’ continued development could define their defensive ceiling.
The first conference fixtures will show which of these five can turn 2025 promise into leadership during the 2026 campaign.