Unity Christian Returns Veteran Core, Sets Sights on Conference Crown and Deep Playoff Run
- Jonathan Turner
- Sep 2
- 2 min read
NATIONAL SOCCER NEWS: www.nationalsoccernetwork.com
Unity Christian Returns Veteran Core, Sets Sights on Conference Crown and Deep Playoff Run
HUDSONVILLE, Mich. — Unity Christian enters the 2025 boys soccer season with unfinished business. After a stellar 14-3-4 campaign last fall that included an OK Black Conference championship, the Crusaders saw their season cut short in the district final against Allendale. That loss has stayed with the team, and Head Coach Ian Billin believes his group is prepared to respond.
“We’ve got the experience, we’ve got the leadership, and we’ve got the drive,” Billin said in the team’s preseason outlook. “With the returning starters we have and additional players with varsity experience, we’re looking to compete for a conference title and make a good run in the playoffs.”
Veteran Leadership Across the Field
The Crusaders bring back a strong senior class, highlighted by Jack Kamminga (M/F), a dynamic attacking option who provides both creativity and finishing ability. Midfield and defensive flexibility will come from Logan Lutke (D/M), while Scott Vredevoogd (M/F) and Cody Walters (M/F) give Unity Christian additional pace and scoring threats up top.
On the defensive end, Kyler Berghuis (D) will anchor the back line with his steady presence, while junior goalkeeper Alen Deppe returns after valuable experience between the posts last season. Landon Crump (M, Jr.) is expected to take on a bigger role in the center of the field, providing two-way play and composure in possession.
Building on Last Year’s Success
Unity Christian controlled the OK Black a year ago, finishing atop the conference standings before advancing deep into the postseason. With several multi-year varsity players in the lineup, the Crusaders believe they are built to repeat as conference champions.
Billin, entering another season at the helm, knows the conference won’t be easy but feels confident in the group’s ability to handle challenges. “Every year our conference is competitive, but we feel like we have the pieces to be right in the mix,” he said.
Keys to the Season
Depth in Attack: With multiple seniors capable of playing forward and midfield roles, Unity Christian can attack in different ways, from possession buildup to quick counters.
Defensive Stability: Berghuis and Lutke will be central to keeping the back line organized, while Deppe gains confidence as a shot-stopper.
Playoff Mindset: After falling just short in the district final, the Crusaders know that consistency in big games will determine how far they go in 2025.
Looking Ahead
The Crusaders’ schedule once again features a number of strong opponents from around West Michigan, giving them chances to test themselves before postseason play. With a mix of returning talent and younger contributors ready to step up, Unity Christian has every reason to believe this season could end with more hardware — and perhaps a deeper playoff run than last year.
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