VICKSBURG,Miss. – The Warren Central High School varsity boys and girls soccer teams have proven their dominance once again, securing district championships for the second consecutive year. As a result, both teams will host first-round playoff games next week, with the girls hosting South Panola and the boys hosting Lake Cormorant. Games will be played at Viking Field on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. respectively.
The Vicksburg Warren School District is incredibly proud of the student-athletes for their impressive achievements this season, and the entire community is excited to cheer them on as they prepare for the playoff stretch.
Athletic Director James Lewis expressed his pride in the teams' accomplishments, saying, "I am extremely proud of the hard work and dedication exhibited by our girls and boys soccer teams at Warren Central High School. They have achieved a special goal and competed valiantly to earn the district title. I couldn't be more proud of our student-athletes and coaches, and I'm excited for their playoff journey.”
(Pictured Above: Head Coach Jeremy Lawrence & Athletic Director James Lewis)
Girls Soccer: A Back-to-Back Triumph
Head Coach Jeremy Lawrence is thrilled with his team’s performance, particularly the hard work that led to their district victory. "Winning back-to-back region championships is no easy feat. I am incredibly proud of our team and the hard work they display every day on the field and in the classroom," Lawrence said. "It's always a good feeling to see our family reaping the benefits of all those long days of practice. Winning district means we get to host all playoff games up until the championship game. Please come out and support both our girls and boys soccer teams during our run to the state championship."
The girls’ team has put together an exceptional season, and their focus on discipline and teamwork has paid off in more ways than one.
(Pictured Above: Coach Greg Head & Athletic Director James Lewis)
Boys Soccer: Rising from Adversity
Coach Greg Head shared the team's remarkable journey over the past few years. "Three years ago, we lost four out of the seven seniors we had coming up. Two players moved out of Vicksburg, one was injured, and one was ruled ineligible. So, we had to start a lot of freshmen that year, and we posted one of the worst records in my career," Head explained. "We definitely struggled that year, but had a lot of growth from those freshmen. Those freshmen overcame a lot of adversity that year, and it has paid off."
In the last two seasons, the boys have not only won their district title, but have also gone undefeated in district play both years. Their impressive 16-2-2 record this season builds on their 17-5-1 record from last year, showcasing the growth and resilience of the team.
“Last year, we were picked to finish third in the district, but we proved everyone wrong. This year, we were picked to win, and we did—going undefeated for the second straight year,” Head said.
The team is led by sophomore Jacob Porter, who has been the top scorer with 22 goals, followed by junior Luke Bond with 13 goals. The defense, anchored by seniors Jackson Holden, Ebrahin Shuaibi, Conner Leverette, and goalkeeper Jamarian Shelly, has been a key factor in the team’s success, keeping opposing teams’ scoring to a minimum. Though the team remains relatively young, with only four starting seniors, they have a solid core of juniors, making the future bright for Warren Central boys’ soccer.
Both teams have demonstrated hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence throughout the season, and with their eyes set on a state championship, the community’s support will be crucial as they continue their journey. Come out and cheer on the Warren Central High School soccer teams as they aim for the state championship.
About the Vicksburg-Warren School District
The Vicksburg-Warren School District is dedicated to providing students with innovative educational opportunities that prepare them for lifelong success. Through its focus on excellence, equity, and community engagement, VWSD strives to meet the needs of every student and empower them to achieve their full potential.