By Caden Herman and Max Park
Ridgewood 2025 Boys Soccer team. (Photographed by Spencer Pisnanont)
As Ridgewood High School’s boys’ soccer team approaches the final stretch of their regular season, the focus has clearly shifted toward preparation for the playoffs. With a promising 5-3 record, the Maroons are in a strong position, but both players and coaches understand that record means little once the postseason begins. Growth, challenges, and improvement have marked the team’s current campaign as a whole – factors that they hope will serve them well in the atmosphere of the county and state tournaments.
One of the defining traits of Ridgewood’s season has been its balance between upperclassmen leadership and the integration of younger players. This dynamic has created a competitive and development-focused environment. While the team has relied on experienced upperclassmen to help with their game plans, contributions from younger players have added a layer of depth and energy to the squad. That blend of maturity and youth has helped the Maroons remain resilient in tight matches and bounce back after setbacks.
Ridgewood’s attacking play has shown flashes of creativity and precision throughout the season. Their ability to control the tempo, string together sequences in the midfield, and create scoring chances has kept them in contention in every match. However, inconsistency in the final third and missed opportunities have at times stalled their ability to pull away from opponents. The coaching staff has emphasized sharper decision-making and better off-the-ball movement as areas for improvement heading into the playoffs.
Defensively, Ridgewood has generally held firm, with strong communication and disciplined positioning from the back line. Still, lapses in concentration during key moments have cost them goals in close games. These breakdowns are not uncommon in a developing team, but minimizing them will be critical as the Maroons face tougher competition in the postseason. Training sessions have recently focused on closing down space more quickly and transitioning more effectively from offense to defense.
Midfield play has been one of the team’s strengths, with Ridgewood often controlling possession and dictating the rhythm of games. The midfielders have worked hard to link up with both the defense and attack, helping the team maintain structure. That cohesion will be vital moving forward, particularly in knockout games where small details and transitions can determine the outcome.
Beyond tactics and performance on the field, the team’s collective mindset has stood out this season. Ridgewood’s players have embraced a team-first mentality, pushing each other in practice and maintaining a sense of accountability. The competition for playing time has raised the standard across the roster, making every training session a chance to grow and prove value to the team.
Another important factor heading into the playoffs will be managing pressure. For many players, particularly underclassmen, this will be their first experience in a high-intensity playoff setting. The coaching staff has worked to keep the team focused on the process, emphasizing preparation, mental toughness, and trust in the system. Upperclassmen are expected to lead by example, not only through performance but also in their composure and work ethic.
With only a few games remaining in the regular season, each match carries added significance. The team is using this time to sharpen its strategies, correct issues, and build the confidence necessary for a deep playoff run. There’s an understanding throughout the group that while they’ve achieved a solid foundation, there is still lingering potential.
As Ridgewood gears up for what lies ahead, the foundation of hard work, adaptability, and belief gives the Maroons a promising shot at making an impact in the postseason.