The Mehlville Panthers boys soccer team enters the 2025 season confident that a strong defensive core and returning leadership can push the program forward.
Mehlville finished 9-11 in 2024, but with most of its back line and key veterans returning, head coach Todd Lauer says the Panthers are ready to raise their standard. He’s encouraged by what he’s seen from his group during the offseason and believes the Panthers are positioned to compete in a tough schedule.
“The offseason has been productive. We focused on recovery after last season but quickly shifted into strength training, skill development and building team chemistry,” Lauer said. “A lot of our returning players showed growth, and some new faces have stepped up already.”
The Panthers emphasized endurance, agility, mental toughness and accountability, with small-sided games used to sharpen their competitive edge. Though the team did not participate in camps or leagues this summer, practices have been high-energy.
“The energy has been great, very focused and competitive. Everyone’s come in hungry and motivated. You can feel a sense of urgency from the veterans and a lot of excitement from the younger guys,” Lauer said.
Several experienced players will lead the Panthers this season, as Aydin Bajric (Sr.) heads the cast of returnees. Lauer called Bajric a smart, technically sound midfielder who creates for teammates and sets the tone as a team-first leader. Fellow senior Connor Puers is a defender known for his high energy, vocal leadership and ability to rally teammates, and senior Ismail Smriko, one of Lauer’s reliable veteran’s, is expected to anchor play on both ends.
Juniors Dante Fogelbach, Ernan Cavcic and Christian and Cohen Gardner also return for Mehlville. Fogelbach is a quiet but steady presence who contributes all over the field and makes winning plays, while Cavcic and both Gardners all bring athleticism and valuable varsity experience to the table.
Sophomore Ben Clark is a rising underclassman to watch, with the potential to break into a regular role this season.
“There are still some friendly battles taking place for a few starting spots,” Lauer said. “Guys are challenging each other for playing time. That competition is expected to strengthen depth across the roster.”
The Panthers’ biggest advantage may be on defense, where the starting backfield returns intact.
“Our biggest strength is on defense,” Lauer emphasized. “We return our starting backfield.”
Mehlville’s immediate goals include improving on-field communication, solidifying a consistent starting XI, and clearly defining roles. Long-term, Lauer wants the team to develop a clear identity built on possession, disciplined defending, and strong chemistry. Academic excellence is also part of the plan, with a team GPA goal of 3.0 or higher.
Lauer views success as progress, not just wins.
“I define success for this group by continuously getting better every day and limiting mistakes,” he said. “We play a tough schedule, so this will make us prepared to make a run in the playoffs.”
With veteran leaders, a talented junior class, and a defensive core already in place, the Panthers are eager to prove themselves in 2025.