There’s a lot of hype around the return of football as there is every season. Don’t forget, though, that boys soccer season is also among us. With that in mind, let’s take a look at five big storylines to keep an eye on this year.

Reloading Lockport

The Porters were one of the best teams in the state last year throughout the season and showed it in the playoffs. They advanced to the supersectional round of the Class 3A bracket where they fell to Hinsdale Central 2-1. Gone from that team is the 2024 Herald-News Player of the Year in Ismael Gomez, who leaves a pair of massive shoes to fill. Goalkeeper Matas Odinas also will be missed.

Still, coach Chris Beal and company have plenty of reason for optimism. Jacob Hareza returns after putting up 17 goals and 15 assists last season, earning

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