News Summary

Wilmington High School announces the departure of Coach Steve Scanlon after 23 years of dedication to the boys soccer and hockey programs. His remarkable achievements include numerous wins and state championships, leaving a lasting legacy in the community. As the school prepares for the next soccer season, the excitement remains high with community voting for the StarNews preseason player of the year. The news marks a bittersweet transition as Wilmington reflects on Scanlon’s impactful coaching career amidst recent personal health challenges.

Wilmington High Says Goodbye to Coach Steve Scanlon After 23 Years

As the bustling Wilmington community gears up for the 2025 high school boys soccer season, there’s a significant change on the horizon that has left many feeling a bit nostalgic. After an impressive 23 years at the helm, Coach Steve Scanlon has been relieved of his duties. His departure is a notable shift in the Wilmington High sports landscape, as he has been a familiar face for nearly a quarter of a century.

Excitement in the Air as Soccer Season Approaches

While the news of Scanlon’s exit might have caught some by surprise, the enthusiasm for the upcoming season remains high. Wilmington’s soccer fans can now take part in the ongoing excitement by casting their votes for the 2025 StarNews preseason high school boys soccer player of the year. The voting is open to the public, allowing supporters to have their say about their favorite players. With at least one nominee from each of the area’s 13 high school teams, there’s plenty of talent to choose from. Don’t forget, the voting closes on August 14, 2025, at 11:59 p.m., and the results will be revealed the very next day!

A Legendary Coaching Career

Steve Scanlon’s coaching journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Since stepping into the role of head coach for boys soccer at Wilmington High in 2000, he has amassed a combined record of 595 wins, 452 losses, and 145 ties across both soccer and hockey. Over the years, his coaching prowess has led the Wilmington hockey team to a stellar achievement, winning two state championships and securing 11 league titles. The soccer team also had its fair share of triumphs, claiming four league crowns under his guidance.

Sadly, this chapter has come to a close a little unconventionally for Scanlon. He reported feeling quite blindsided when he learned from the athletic director, through a text message, that both of his coaching positions had been posted.

Health Challenges Amidst Coaching Duties

In addition to the surprising news of his departure, it’s important to highlight the personal battle Scanlon has been facing. Diagnosed with throat cancer in January 2023, Scanlon bravely continued to coach while undergoing chemotherapy treatments. Even during these challenging times, he expressed a sincere desire for open discussions about his future at Wilmington High.

Despite recent struggles on the field, the past few seasons have been challenging for the soccer team, struggling with a record of 7 wins, 41 losses, and 7 ties over the last three years. The hockey team’s performance hasn’t been stellar either, posting a record of 27 wins, 54 losses, and 4 ties. Nevertheless, Scanlon has emphasized the dedication of his players and the cherished memories created throughout his years in coaching.

Legacy of Excellence

Scanlon’s contributions to Wilmington athletic programs cannot be overstated. He is enshrined in both the Massachusetts State Coaches Association Hall of Fame and the Wilmington High School Hall of Fame, a testament to his impact on student-athletes over the decades. Reflecting on his years, he acknowledges the importance of passionate players and dedicated assistant coaches in achieving success. With a record of 338 wins, 228 losses, and 101 ties in soccer, his overall games coached amount to 1,473, with an impressive total record of 724 wins, 503 losses, and 246 ties.

Moving Forward

As Wilmington High prepares for a new era in coaching, the community undoubtedly has a lot of respect and gratitude for Coach Scanlon and his long-standing commitment to promoting excellence both on and off the field. His presence will surely be missed, and many are left reminiscing about the impactful moments shared on the sidelines. While it’s a bittersweet goodbye, there is also a bright future ahead for the Wilmington High boys soccer program and its new leadership.

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