MAUMEE, Ohio — Anytime a player competes at the varsity level as a freshman, that typically serves as a great sign for the future. For Maumee High School senior Blake Wagener that reality struck in a big way on Wednesday.
In a conference matchup at home against Oak Harbor, the Panthers boys soccer team utilized its motto of "grind" and won the match by a final score of 4-0. The victory improved the program's record to 8-0 (4-0 in NBC) on the season, but a moment late in the first half elevated the night even further.
"Blake is a special kid," head coach Chad Kain said. "To be honest with you, I didn't even know until they announced it. So it was great because I had no idea either."
Very few people in the stands watching the match knew of the history at stake. In the 37th minute, Wagener followed up his own shot and found the back of the net to mark his second goal of the game. A tally that would also set a Maumee first.
"Definitely really special. It was nice doing it at home so people could see it," Wagener said. "Again, it's just a milestone that my team has really contributed to."
The midfielder and captain became the Panthers' first player to score 100 career goals.
"There were actually students in the student section, which doesn't happen very often," Wagener said. "Great to get it and then see everyone in the stands supporting me. It's just a really good feeling."
Throughout his career, which included breaking the program's single-season scoring record last season, Wagener has been the center of attention for every opponent. His focus every match however is set on Maumee.
"Having this team around me. My teammates and I have been around for years and know each other," Wagener said. "It's just great scoring goals, celebrating goals and it's just a great time being with them."
Coming off a campaign in which he earned 1st team All-Ohio honors, Wagener appears well on his way to another state honor. While the stats are extraordinary, it's his ability to lead that sets him apart.
"To score 100 goals in four years is pretty impressive," Kain said. "He's by far the hardest working kid in every practice. He's the first here and the last to leave. He's a captain and that helps set the standard."
Blake Wagener is WTOL 11's Athlete of the Week.
