There’s just one step left for Hilldale junior Brody Haraway and the Hilldale Hornet soccer team and that’s to take the gold ball in 2024. Hilldale has made a steady climb in its relatively short history, making the state playoffs every year since 2019 (Covid axed the 2020 season) finally leading to the state championship game last year, avenging a loss to Bethany along the way, before falling to Clinton in the finals and finishing with a record of 15-3. This year Haraway has been named the main team captain- rightfully so according to his coach Conner Schwab.

“Brody is the most respected guy in our locker room,” said Schwab. “He’s like having a coach on the field. He has a high soccer IQ and holds himself to a high standard and expects the same from his teammates.”

Haraway can play a number of positions on the pitch which makes him invaluable and while many players have visions of scoring goals and getting applause, Brody says that’s not really his thing.

“Being the star has never been a big deal for me. I prefer playing defensive center mid because that’s where I feel the most comfortable and feel I can have the biggest impact on the game which means everything to me.”

Haraway has played club ball since he was six or seven and credits his club coach Chris Taylor with helping him a lot with his leadership skill and character over the years. As team captain this year, Brody knows a lot will be expected of him.

“I lead by example. I know I’m not the loudest guy on the field but feel if I set a good example the team is more likely to follow that even if I’m not there.”

He looks at last season’s state semifinal win against Bethany as one of the high points of his high school career.

“That was the most fun and invigorating game I’ve ever played in, and it felt like a home game with the great fan support we had.”

Brody hopes that the 2024 campaign, which starts in just a few weeks, will add another highlight to his soccer memories.