In the 60s and 70s the rivalry between Windsor Locks High School and E.O. Smith was a good as they come. As they did the year before, the 1971 WLHS team avenged a regular season loss to Smith with a win in the State Tournament, this time in the title game.
Freshman Rich Balboni took a pass from junior Russ Mattesen and put the Raiders ahead for good 2-1. Mattesen also assisted on the team’s other goal, scored by Bob Lash.
team was again led by Senior All American Mike OConnor who selflessly changed positions taking him out of scoring situations after leading the team in scoring his junior year. Terry Jubrey, Matt Dominski, Mark Dennis and George Trantalis played brilliantly all year. Mattesen had an outstanding tournament. Coach Dan Sullivan got his fourth state soccer title in only 12 years of coaching.
After completing a second undefeated Central Valley Conference season the 14-2 the Raiders beat Valley Regional 2-1 in the first round of the tournament and then previously unbeaten Sheehan High in the quarterfinals 1-0 on a goal by Mattesen.
In the semi- finals the Locks easily beat Lyman Hall 4-0 on goals by Mattesen, Earl Flick and two by Lash.
While many believe the 1970 WLHS State Champion Soccer team was the best ever, the 1971 team accomplished as much with the added burden of being the defending champion. Playing against the best in the State, the 1971 Raiders were beaten only twice and solidified Windsor Locks High School as a soccer powerhouse.
Team Members from L to R in photo.
Front Row: Mgr. Brian Squires, Walt Umberfield, Rusty Mattesen, Brian Holmes, Glen Bascetta, Rick Oliviera, Bobby Lash, Mike Barile, Dave Scheerer, Rich Balboni, Joe Flynn, Mgr. Dave McKay.
Back Row: Rick Tersavich, Asst. Coach Jim McKenna, George Trantalis, Earl Flick, Gary Hamley, John Cressotti, Mark Dennis, Matt Dominski, Terry Jubrey, Mike O’Connor, Jim Nussbaum, Coach Dan Sullivan, Asst. Coach John Wilk.
