NORTH PORT, Fla. – The North Port High School boys soccer team saw its improbable postseason run come to an end on Thursday night, falling 1-0 to Newsome in the Class 7A regional semifinals. The Bobcats, who entered the postseason as underdogs, had stunned opponents throughout the playoffs, but their quest for a state title was ultimately halted by a determined Newsome squad.
The loss concludes a remarkable turnaround for North Port, a team that coach Joey Sorbino admitted hadn’t been performing to its potential during the regular season. “We weren’t in the position that we felt we should have been in when we entered the district tournament this year,” Sorbino said. “And we did take that a little bit personally, because we felt some results we let slip out of our hands. So we said we were going to make a run, and we did. I’m proud of the boys. It’s them. They come through, and they have to make the choice to do the things we ask, but also to give the effort.”
That effort was evident in their previous playoff victories, which included wins over Booker, Riverview, Venice, and Sarasota to secure their second district title in three seasons. The Bobcats then continued their momentum with an upset victory over Plant, setting up the semifinal clash with Newsome.
The team’s success was built on a strong sense of unity and a willingness to embrace the underdog role. Junior center and midfielder Jakub Seweryn emphasized the importance of team chemistry. “You know, we’re like underdogs,” Seweryn said. “We’re all just together, and it’s a group effort. As a team, the chemistry – it’s not just individual players, it’s as a team.”
Despite the loss, the Bobcats’ postseason journey was a testament to their resilience and determination. They navigated a challenging path through the playoffs, overcoming tough competition from Sarasota and Hillsborough counties. Their ability to knock off higher-seeded teams demonstrated a level of grit and tactical awareness that surprised many observers.
The single goal conceded against Newsome proved to be the difference in a tightly contested match. Details of the goal itself were not immediately available, but the narrow margin suggests a hard-fought battle on the pitch. The Bobcats’ offensive efforts were ultimately unable to break down the Newsome defense, ending their hopes of advancing to the state semifinals.
North Port’s run was particularly noteworthy given their earlier struggles during the regular season. The team’s ability to identify and address their shortcomings, and then translate that into improved performance during the playoffs, speaks to the coaching staff’s ability to motivate and develop their players. Sorbino’s emphasis on personal responsibility and effort clearly resonated with the team.
The Bobcats’ success also highlights the growing competitiveness of high school soccer in the region. Their victories over established programs like Plant and Venice demonstrate that the balance of power is shifting, and that any team can be a contender on any given day. This increased competition benefits the sport as a whole, fostering a more challenging and rewarding environment for players and coaches alike.
While the season ended in disappointment, the North Port boys soccer team has undoubtedly left a lasting impression on the local community. Their underdog story and unwavering team spirit will be remembered long after the final whistle. The team’s performance serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and a reminder that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and a belief in oneself.
The defeat to Newsome brings an end to North Port’s season, but the experience gained and the lessons learned will undoubtedly benefit the program in the years to come. The Bobcats have established a foundation for future success, and their commitment to teamwork and perseverance will continue to guide them as they strive for even greater achievements.
