Monroe's 2024 season came to an end on Friday night in Dearborn as the Trojans were defeated 5-0 by Saline in the regional final. The Monroe squad matched the SEC Champions in the first half by subduing the twin attacking threats of Jaeydn Sifuna and Zach Heisler and managing to disrupt their passing game. Both Teegan Simmons and Jake Steckmeyer deserve credit for the way they stuck to their marking task. The best chance of the half actually fell to Monroe when senior Brian Palmer broke through but his well struck shot was expertly saved by the Saline keeper Eric Friedholm.

HT 0-0 

In the second half the depth and quality of the Hornets squad began to tell. A penalty and a second goal shortly afterwards knocked the the wind out of the Monroe players and effectively ended the contest. Monroe did revert to two forwards to try and gain some momentum. This led to the Trojans creating some attacking opportunities and Jovanny Gallegos and Brian Palmer both had shots well saved. The switch in formation gave the Hornets more more space to attack and they capitalized adding three more goals before the end. Huge effort by everyone but especially Colin Gray in the back and Luis Diaz, Yesael Vargas and twin Israel Vargas who all played with injuries and in some considerable pain in midfield.

Despite the disappointing result it was nonetheless an outstanding, historic season for the team. Not only first ever wins over AA Pioneer and Dexter and a spot in the top four championship bracket of the SEC Red division, but also a thrilling run through the state tournament with dramatic victories over Woodhaven, Bedford and Canton, resulting in a district championship and a place in the Regional final for the first time since 1997.

Monroe will return 14 players and graduate 9 seniors. 

Graduating Field players: Bryson Lane,©) Jovanny Gallegos ©,  Brian Palmer, Teegan Simmons, Vishwas Joshi, Israel Vargas, Yesael Vargas, Eric Sanchez and goalkeeper Nathan Sanchez. 

We thank them for their immense contribution to the program and wish them well in their future athletic and academic endeavors. 

Monroe Record for 2024 

P23 W 13 L8 T2  F 65 A 46 (+19)            winning percentage 57%  

Great season Boys!  Next game August 2025