The Siloam Springs Boys soccer team is looking to win the programs third straight state title. The last two years Siloam Springs was competing in the 5A division, this year they made the jump up to 6A. Despite moving up a division the team forged through the 6A state tournament and now finds themselves in their third straight state final match-up.
"When we were in 5A and winning state championships not many people thought much of us," said senior Mario Floures. "We were very underestimated. A goal of ours was to come into 6A and show everyone that we did belong in the 6A."
It is evident thus far the team has proven they belong in the 6A. While their talent is undeniable, the team's success isn't something that happened overnight. It's been a year long process to get ready for the competition level of the 6A division.
"At the beginning of the year everyone was working hard everyday," said senior Will Easley. "The fitness level was up, everyone was working hard in the weight room, everyone wanted this since the beginning of the year."
Siloam Springs was the only 6A team in the powerful 6A/7A west conference. Playing premier 7A teams week in and week out prepared the team for the 6A state tournament.
"Us playing in the 7A west against the top teams in the state obviously helped to get us where we wanted to be," said Head Coach Jason Bowen.
"Facing that level of competition week after week definitely prepared us well for the 6A," said Floures.
Heading into Friday's game the senior class wants to win their third state ring, but more importantly they want to leave their mark on the Siloam Springs soccer program.
"We want to prove to everyone that Siloam is a dynasty," said Easley. "Winning a third straight state championship will definitely do that."