Duluth East Soccer enters the 2025 season with high expectations, driven by a blend of experience, fresh energy, and a clear vision for success. With a reputation for gritty performances and tactical discipline, the team is ready to compete at the highest level once again. Following a solid showing last season, they now look to build on their momentum with a new roster and sharpened focus.
In this season preview, we break down everything you need to know about the 2025 campaign — from the key players and core strategy to strengths, top matchups, and playoff hopes. If you’re a fan of high school soccer or curious about the rising talent in northern Minnesota, this guide will keep you informed and ready for the action.
Duluth East Soccer 2025 Season: A Focused Look Ahead
The 2025 season brings renewed hope for Duluth East Soccer, as the team eyes a return to state-level prominence. Known as one of the most respected programs in Minnesota high school soccer, Duluth East has built a tradition of developing disciplined players with strong fundamentals. This year, the emphasis is on smart positioning, fluid ball movement, and leadership on and off the field. With a well-balanced mix of returning varsity standouts and young breakout talent, the Duluth East team is poised to challenge even the top-ranked schools across the state.
This section-by-section preview dives into the team’s structure, standout performers, and what fans should expect in the months ahead.
| Category | Details |
| Head Coach | Mike Larson |
| Formation Style | 4-3-3 with high pressing |
| Team Captain | Evan Porter (Midfield) |
| Top Goal Threat | Leo Martinez (Forward) |
| Defensive Leader | Thomas Berg (Center-back) |
| Goalkeeper | Ryan Hall |
| Home Stadium | Ordean Stadium |
| Key Games | Edina, Wayzata, Minnetonka |
| 2024 Finish | Quarterfinal loss in state playoffs |
| 2025 Goal | State semifinal or higher |
Roster Highlights for 2025
The Duluth East team features a confident and determined squad this year, and fans have every reason to be excited. Returning to the pitch are several senior leaders, most notably captain Evan Porter. A technical midfielder with a cool head and excellent passing range, Porter will be the heartbeat of this year’s unit.
Up top, junior striker Leo Martinez is set to be one of the standout soccer prospects of 2025. His pace, positioning, and ability to finish with both feet make him a constant threat. His development over the past year has turned him into a complete forward, and he’s likely to lead the team in scoring.
Defensively, center-back Thomas Berg brings experience and physicality. He’s commanding in the air and reads the game well, often intercepting key passes before they become dangerous. Supporting him is senior goalkeeper Ryan Hall, who is known for his sharp reflexes and composure under pressure.
Off the bench, look out for sophomore midfielder AJ Daniels, one of the most exciting young talents in boys varsity soccer statewide. His versatility gives the team flexibility in shaping tactics throughout a match.
Strategy and Playing Style
The tactical setup for Duluth East Soccer in 2025 will revolve around control and pressure. Coach Mike Larson is sticking with a 4-3-3 formation, which suits the current roster well. The approach emphasizes short, precise passing through the midfield, aggressive pressing when out of possession, and using wide players to stretch the field.
Transitions will be key. The midfield trio, led by Porter, will focus on switching play quickly, while the wingers and full-backs look to exploit space behind defenders. Defensively, the team will use a high line, relying on communication and cohesion to limit chances and recover balls early.
Set pieces are another focus this year. With strong aerial players like Berg and Martinez, the team will look to capitalize on corners and free kicks, an area where they struggled in 2024.
Strengths That Stand Out
One of the most significant advantages Duluth East Soccer holds this year is the overall team chemistry. Many of the core players have been training together since youth soccer, which has created a deep sense of understanding and trust on the field. This cohesion allows the team to move as a unit, communicate effectively, and recover quickly from mistakes.
Another strength is positional depth. Injuries and fatigue are part of any long high school soccer season, and Duluth East has reliable options across the pitch. From midfield rotations to defensive substitutions, the bench can be counted on to maintain intensity and quality.
Finally, the leadership group on this squad is particularly strong. With seniors like Porter and Berg setting the tone in training and games, the younger players have clear examples to follow — a key ingredient for team culture and long-term success.
Key Players to Watch
- Evan Porter (Midfield): Tactical leader and skilled distributor, keeps the team composed and organized.
- Leo Martinez (Forward): Fast, agile, and clinical in the box. Expected to be the top scorer.
- Thomas Berg (Defense): Commands the backline, strong in one-on-ones and set-piece defense.
- Ryan Hall (Goalkeeper): Safe hands in goal with a growing reputation for match-saving performances.
These players will shape the success of Duluth East Soccer and are likely to attract attention from college scouts and Minnesota soccer circles alike.
Goals and Expectations
After a hard-fought exit in last year’s state quarterfinals, the 2025 goal is clear: reach the semifinals or better. This year’s squad is more mature, more balanced, and has added depth. Coach Larson has emphasized game management and late-match focus, two areas that cost the team key results last season.
In conference play, Duluth East Soccer is expected to be among the top top high school teams in the region. While the path is tough, especially with away games at Wayzata and Minnetonka, the confidence within the locker room is strong.
Mentally, the team is sharper. They’ve trained under pressure, simulated match-ending scenarios, and worked on improving their fitness to be able to handle high-tempo opponents.
2 Key Factors for a Successful Season
- Depth and Substitution Strength
A well-rounded bench allows Duluth East Soccer to maintain pace and tactical edge across all 80 minutes, especially in tight matches or back-to-back game weeks. - Team Communication and Leadership
On-field communication, particularly between the backline and midfield, ensures structure under pressure and allows the team to recover the ball effectively during transitions.
Game Schedule and Key Matches
A few matches stand out on this year’s calendar, both in terms of rivalry and playoff implications:
- September 20 vs. Edina – A physical test at home, expected to be one of the biggest crowd draws.
- October 3 at Wayzata – A road challenge against a state contender, critical for playoff seeding.
- October 15 vs. Minnetonka – Senior night and a potential decider in the conference title race.
These games will reveal a lot about the team’s growth and postseason readiness. Fans should mark these on their calendars.
Community and Fan Support
One thing that never changes with Duluth East Soccer is the community support. Ordean Stadium often fills up with family members, classmates, and alumni cheering from the stands. This kind of backing gives players a morale boost, especially during home stretches and close contests.
The team also benefits from a growing local youth soccer program. Younger players look up to this squad as role models, creating a deep connection between the high school and local leagues — something that strengthens the pipeline of soccer talent in the area.
FAQs
1. Who are the captains of the Duluth East Soccer team in 2025?
Evan Porter is the primary captain, supported by Thomas Berg and Ryan Hall in leadership roles.
2. What kind of soccer does Duluth East play?
The team plays a possession-based 4-3-3 style with high pressing and quick transitions.
3. Are there any players being scouted for college?
Yes, Leo Martinez and Evan Porter have both drawn interest from regional colleges.
4. How did the team perform last season?
In 2024, Duluth East reached the state quarterfinals before being eliminated in a tight match.
5. When is the most anticipated home game?
Senior Night against Minnetonka on October 15 is expected to be a key event this season.
Final Thought
The 2025 season is shaping up to be a defining year for Duluth East Soccer. With a strong leadership core, promising talent, and a unified team spirit, they have all the pieces to make a serious run in the state playoffs. Fans and community members have every reason to believe that this team will not only compete but potentially make history.
Follow the team, attend the games, and show your support — and don’t forget to share your thoughts below or explore more local soccer coverage to stay engaged all season long.
