News Summary

The Hopewell High boys soccer team has made history by winning its first-ever region championship and securing a spot in the state tournament. Under the leadership of senior striker Jeremiah Mackin, the team has transformed its fortunes, ending a difficult period with a remarkable record of 12-5-2. Mackin’s contributions, including 27 goals and multiple accolades, have inspired both the team and the community. As they progress into the Class 3 quarterfinals, Hopewell looks to build on this success and make further history in the state tournament.

Hopewell, Virginia: A Season of Triumph for Hopewell High Boys Soccer

In a remarkable turn of events that have captivated the local community, the boys soccer team at Hopewell High School has achieved what was once thought impossible. With the spirited senior striker Jeremiah Mackin leading the charge, the Blue Devils have soared to new heights, winning their first-ever region championship and securing a coveted spot in the state tournament.

From Struggles to Success

The journey to this historic season was not an easy one. Over the past couple of years, the Hopewell boys soccer program was known for its struggles on the field, finishing the 2023 season with a disappointing record of 0-18 and seeing some slight improvements in 2024 with a record of 1-14-3. However, this was not the future that Jeremiah Mackin envisioned for himself or his team as he set out to change the narrative during his senior year.

Mackin, who has played soccer since he was just three or four years old, faced his own challenges early on but eventually found his passion and honed his skills. As the new season approached, he approached Hopewell’s athletic director, Kerry Gray, for guidance on how to elevate Hopewell’s soccer program to new levels. He aimed high with goals set for both himself and his team, hoping to achieve at least four wins this season.

The Rise of a Star

The 2024 season turned into a memorable one for Mackin and his teammates. The Blue Devils boasted an impressive record of 12-5-2 under his leadership. Mackin emerged as a standout player not just on the scoreboard, but also as a key motivator for his teammates. He netted an astonishing 27 goals — including seven game-winning strikes — and contributed seven assists. This performance earned him accolades that no other Hopewell athlete had seen before.

Jeremiah’s incredible skills on the field earned him multiple honors, including being named the Region 3A player of the year and a spot on the Class 3 all-state team. His excellence didn’t stop there; he was also recognized as the 2025 All-Metro boys soccer player of the year — a first for any Hopewell spring sport athlete. Coach Colby Cancino noted how Mackin’s leadership inspired not just his teammates but also encouraged more students to join the soccer program.

A Balanced Athlete

But there’s more to Jeremiah than just soccer. He maintained an impressive 4.1 GPA while also serving as a kicker on the school’s football team. He’s not alone in his athletic pursuits; his triplet sisters, Jazmyn and Jaydyn, are also committed athletes aiming to compete at the collegiate level. Together, the trio has set an admirable example for student-athletes, balancing academics and sports at an exceptionally high standard.

A New Chapter Awaits

As the Blue Devils marched into the Class 3 quarterfinals looking to build on their incredible streak, there were pivotal moments that highlighted their potential. One unforgettable highlight came during the Region 3A semifinal where Mackin scored the decisive penalty in their hard-fought 1-0 victory over Petersburg — that win was not only crucial for their region title but also clinched their place in the state tournament.

Hopewell’s defense made quite the impression this season, delivering solid performances that included a remarkable clean sheet in the semifinal match. Coach Cancino emphasized the importance of a supportive team culture and their collective commitment, both of which were key to their transformation and successful run this season.

With Mackin set to take his talents to the Virginia State men’s soccer team, where he chose to play for its close proximity to family, the future looks bright for him and his family. The Mackin triplets are a testament to what can be achieved with hard work and dedication. As the Hopewell High boys soccer team looks ahead, the community rallies behind them, eager to see how they will make history in the Class 3 quarterfinals. The excitement is palpable, and everyone can’t wait to see what comes next!

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