The boys soccer team from Hardeeville, S.C., is on the brink of an extraordinary achievement on Thursday, May 22. In their first year back at the varsity level after ending their partnership with Ridgeland, the Canes are striving to capture a state championship.

The season did not get off to a great start. Hardeeville was winless in their first seven matches, but then they won six of the next seven.

According to head coach David Wright, the players initially struggled with teamwork. They focused too much on individual play rather than coming together, which hindered their search for their first victory.

Wright advised the team, who ultimately secured the second seed for the Lower State, to enhance their communication and prioritize collective play. Following this pep talk, they shared the regional title with Royal Live Oaks and are now just one win away from the state championship.

“I’m nervous,” Wright said. “I think it’s natural for me to be nervous. But I think they’re doing way much better than me right now. They’re really encouraged. They’re motivated. This is something that they want.”

Junior defender Efrain Tinoco added, “I feel like it’s going to be an unreal feeling. First time. First state final. It’s my junior year and I’ve been trying to make it to a state final for the first time ever. I think it’s going to be a great experience, a great game.”

Hardeeville takes on Dixie in the Class A state championship game Thursday at 2 p.m. At Memorial Stadium in Columbia, South Carolina.