Valley Sports ReportWAVERLY — In its first year in the STAC, Waverly had two boys soccer players — seniors Sam Knight and Charlie Larrabee — earn All-Central Division honors.
"Both Sam and Charlie are very deserving of the All-Star honors, and have been a valuable part of our team for the last four years," said Waverly coach Eric Ryck. "They will be missed."
Knight, a dependable and talented defender, had one assist on the season, but was the backbone of the Wolverine defense.
"Sam has been a four-year starter and a standout for us on defense," said Ryck. "He is very fast, smart with the ball , almost unbeatable in 1-v-1 situations, and very dependable.
"There is always a sense of comfort with Sam in the back line," added Ryck. "As a coaching staff we always just know he will make the play."
Larrabee, a speedy and heady player, led Waverly with five goals this season, despite only playing five games due to injury.
"Charlie has been a four-year starter and standout for us as well," said Ryck. "He has been someone we’ve really leaned on for leadership on the field.
"He was really poised to have a huge season this year … he only played 5 games before getting hurt and was still our leading goal scorer," noted Ryck. "His soccer IQ is through the roof, his ball control is impeccable, and his vision and distribution are second to none, which is why he has been a center-midfielder since 9th grade.
"This year he came in off of a very successful track season and gained some incredible speed which picked his game up another notch and he was running by back lines like they were standing still," added Ryck.
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IN PHOTO: Waverly’s Charlie Larrabee (left) and Sam Knight. … VSR STOCK PHOTOS.
