NICOLAS RYUJIN is a strong defensive midfielder for the Panthers.

After not making the playoffs last season for the first time this millennium, Benicia High’s boys varsity soccer team hopes to regain its rightful place atop the Solano County Athletic Conference in 2015.

The Panthers return nine players – including all four defenders – from last year’s team that went 4-4-2 in the SCAC. Add in an experienced striker, an All-SCAC midfielder and a talented new goalie and Benicia has the necessary ingredients to get back to the postseason.

“Missing the playoffs was a big shocker and we’ve talked about it,” said Benicia head coach Javier Martinez. “We need to get back to where the program has been and play like we’ve been there before. Though we have a lot of guys with another year of varsity experience, we still have another really young team.”

Benicia has only four seniors, led by defender Imani McNorton, who was an All-SCAC First Team selection last year. McNorton joins juniors Ryan Herd, Jason Herd and Jason Kirby on a veteran back line that is the strength of the team.

“We’re untested offensively but I think we make up for it defensively,” Martinez said. “All of our defenders have varsity experience and our goalie play should be improved a lot. I’m not too worried about our defense.”

Sophomore Tyler Caruso has taken the starting goaltender job, with veteran Michael O’Leary as a capable backup. Caruso has a lot of club experience and Martinez likes his skill set.

“He’s quick and knows how to play the position,” Martinez said. “He’s made some fantastic saves in practice. I think he’ll be a good asset for us.”

Junior veteran Landon Elfstrom spearheads Benicia’s offense at striker.

“He brings quickness and an ability to get by people,” Martinez said. “I expect a big year from him offensively.”

Junior Nicolas Ryujin was an All-SCAC Honorable Mention last year and is Benicia’s best defensive midfielder. Veteran seniors Austin Royce and Niccolo Villella join juniors Alex Donabedian and Mitchell Blair as starting midfielders.

“We’re a little untested there,” Martinez said. “Our game is built around a lot of touches. If we do that and play as a team, we’ll be OK.”

Benicia should get a boost mid-season when veteran midfielder Isaac Doi returns from an ankle injury. Senior Matthew Padua will also see significant time at forward and midfielder.

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