![Prep Soccer Achieves Back-to-Back No. 1 National Rankings]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1735829503/woodstockacademyorg/phprmcyakyhcwq53g753/psoccer.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1735829503/woodstockacademyorg/phprmcyakyhcwq53g753/psoccer.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1735829503/woodstockacademyorg/phprmcyakyhcwq53g753/psoccer.png","width":730}])
The Woodstock Academy has solidified its status as the number one prep soccer program in the nation by prepsoccer.com for the second consecutive season. Under the exceptional leadership of head coach Owen Finberg, the Centaurs capped off an impressive season with a 14-1-2 record and their second straight Prep Premier League (PPL) championship title.
With a remarkable 29-1-3 record over the past two seasons, The Woodstock Academy continues to set the standard in prep soccer. This season, the Centaurs dominated the competition, going 6-0-1 against other Prep Top 10 programs, with their sole loss coming against Pennington School (New Jersey), last year’s High School Boys Soccer fall national champion.
The PPL title was clinched with a 2-1 victory over Hoosac School, showcasing the depth and talent of Woodstock's roster. Rutgers signee Jude Essuman ‘25 led the charge, scoring a team-best eight goals in league play. Standout performances also came from Lehigh commit Ajani Banton ‘25 (defender) and Middlebury commit Dylan Payne ‘25 (midfielder). Essuman and goalkeeper Alvaro Medrano Lopez ‘25 will represent The Woodstock Academy in the High School All-America Game this week in Charleston, S.C.
Sophomore forward Richard Sarpong also made his mark, finishing second on the team in league goals and fourth overall in the PPL, underscoring the program’s bright future.
“Not only do we have a group of talented players that are also growing into great young men, but we also have a culture within our program that is both competitive and supportive, and one that we work hard to sustain year after year. It is unbelievably satisfying to help this group of players and coaches achieve the success of being both Prep Premier League and National Champions again,” said Coach Finberg.
As the program celebrates its back-to-back No. 1 rankings, The Woodstock Academy remains committed to fostering excellence both on and off the field.
“Our soccer program exemplifies the values we instill in all our students—commitment, collaboration, and excellence. This achievement not only highlights the incredible talent of our players and coaches but also unites and inspires our entire school community. We couldn’t be more proud,” said Head of School Chris Sandford.