Player of the Year
David Neuberth, Century
Following two years away from high school soccer, Neuberth exploded back onto the scene this season, leading Carroll County with 24 goals to go along with five assists.
The senior, who played club ball each of the past two seasons after spending his freshman year on Century's junior varsity., racked up seven multi-goal games, including three hat tricks, to become the first player from a county public school to score at least 20 goals in more than a decade.
Throughout the season, he took advantage of his strength to shield the ball from defenders; his speed to beat them downfield; and his immense skills with both feet to help a team that had lost nine starters finish 9-5-1. He is undecided about his college choice.
Coach of the Year
Fran McCullin, Westminster
Despite losing eight starters to graduation, including his entire starting midfield, McCullin's team improved, finishing unbeaten in Carroll County (4-0-2).
Along the way were a one-goal win over Century, a scoreless tie against county champion Liberty and a 1-0 win over North Carroll to advance to the Class 4A North semifinals. While offense carried the Owls early, their defense came into its own as the season progressed, helping Westminster evolve into one of the area's most dangerous all-around units by the playoffs.
Respected by both his players and peers as a teacher of the game, McCullin has spent 27 seasons as a head coach, starting his career at Liberty before moving to Westminster in 1985.
Note:
Players and Coach of the Year were selected by Rich Scherr after consultation with
The Sun
staff and area coaches.