by Evan Parsons, Telstar High Senior

As the 2025 boys soccer season begins, the seniors of Telstar High School are stepping onto the field with clear focus, strong leadership, and a drive fueled by the sting of last year’s early playoff exit. For seniors Cyrus Mills and Connor Deprey, both seniors in the Class of 2026, this final season is more than just another chance to compete, it’s about leaving behind a legacy.

When asked about what they thought their responsibilities were, Mills noted, “My responsibilities that I find I need to have are leadership and dedication within the team.”

“Whether we’re working together as a whole team or I need to talk with someone one-on-one, I can do that and help them.” Deprey shared a similar view, emphasizing both personal and team accountability. “I feel like my responsibilities are keeping my teammates in check, but also keeping myself in check and just trying to lead this team.”

Now in their senior year, the players reflected on whether they felt a stronger drive heading into their final high school season. For Mills, the answer was clear. “It’s my last year playing a high school sport, and soccer is a sport that I like,” he said. “So of course you want to do the best you can, and that drive makes you more motivated.” Deprey agreed, but noted that his motivation has always been strong. “I feel like I’ve always had a drive on the field,” he said. “It’s a little bit better this year because I know we have a good chance, but I’ve always had that drive for all the sports I play.”

When it comes to leadership, both seniors pointed to the importance of humility, perspective, and responsibility. “You need responsibility to lead a team, especially if you want to win,” said Mills. “If you’re not motivated or dedicated, your practices are going to be worse, and then you’ll bring that into the game.” Deprey added, “You have to see different perspectives of people and what they see through their eyes, not just your own. You always have to listen to the coach and not think that just because you’re a captain means you’re the best.”

Last year’s loss in the first round of the playoffs still weighs on both players, but rather than dwelling on disappointment, they’re using it as motivation. “I was a captain last year and I was just disappointed with how we ended our season, knowing we could do better and had more potential,” said Mills. “But this year, with that experience, we’re going to do a lot better. We’ve learned from our mistakes and know how to fix them.” Deprey took it personally. “I wanted to get revenge on Temple, which we ended up doing last night,” he said. “They ended our season last year, so that loss definitely motivated me in every way possible.”

That fire and focus is something their coach, Nik Conrad, understands well. A 2014 Alumnae from Telstar, Conrad returned to coach the program he once played for, driven by a desire to build something greater for the next generation of players. “I wanted to contribute to something I never had a chance to do; actually compete in the playoffs,” Conrad said. “I’ve been rebuilding the program since I graduated and loving every minute of it.”

Conrad’s approach to coaching is deeply personal. Inspired by a mentor who coached him in his youth, Coach sees his role as not only building athletes but shaping character. “Seeing the difference a coach can make in shaping a player and a person, that moved me. I wanted to do the same,” he said.

That commitment to connection is not lost on the players. “Our coach stays in touch with us, even in the off-season,” said Mills. “He wants us to be the best we can be. He’s really motivated.” Deprey added, “He goofs off with us a little, and he has a sense of humor like we do. That really helps build that connection.” Conrad agreed that the relationships built over the years have created something special. “We’ve all been together for at least six or seven years now. It definitely feels like family at this point.”

Fueled by the lessons of last season and bonded by years of playing side-by-side, the now 4-0 Telstar Rebels enter the 2025 season with their eyes on a bigger prize. “It absolutely has motivated us,” said Conrad. “It’s fuel for us. State champs. Get ready. Gold ball coming.”