TOLEDO, Ohio — St. Francis de Sales goalkeeper Joel Neary saved the Knights' season in the district semi-final against Anthony Wayne on Monday.
"It was my first tournament game for the team and I was just ready because I know I haven't gotten much playing time this year," he said. "But I was ready to rise to the challenge for my team and help them win the game."
Neary is just a freshman and hasn't started much. But when adversity hit, he rose to the occasion and snagged two saves during penalty kicks, giving St. Francis the win.
"Unfortunately, our starting keeper got hurt. Joel stepped in and finished the job in an incredible way," head coach Michael Kern said. "Coming down to the wire, I think what he accomplished, no other freshman has done in this school. His work ethic, personality, maturity and game preparation are off the charts."
Neary said he wants to continue this season's run and contribute once again in the district finals on Saturday.
"It was a great time, I was just really excited to help my team get the win and move on to the district finals," he said. "Obviously I want to win, keep a clean sheet for my team and it's just a great experience to get here as a freshman."
Kern said he plans for Neary to play in the championship and that Monday's performance was all the more reassurance of his readiness.
"I think he has some peace knowing that 'this is my position, this is my team and he stepped up in an incredible way," Kern said. "This is deserving to him, deserving to his family great people and the kid has a bright future."
St. Francis plays Perrysburg in the district finals on Saturday.
Joel Neary is our Athlete of the Week sponsored by Dave's Running.