Woodhaven reloads after senior turnover, targets Downriver League playoffs
- Jonathan Turner
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
NATIONAL SOCCER NEWS: www.nationalsoccernetwork.com
Woodhaven reloads after senior turnover, targets Downriver League playoffs
WOODHAVEN, Mich. — After graduating seven senior starters, Woodhaven enters the new Division 1 campaign with a youthful core and a clear goal: get back to the Downriver League playoffs and finish the job in the postseason. The Warriors went 9-10 last fall, reaching both the conference championship game and the district final before bowing out, and head coach Mario Konja believes the reset can spark growth.
Returning core
Senior forward Benedetto Covelli headlines the attack after emerging as a constant threat up top. Veterans Sachal Chaudhry and Kris Maxhari give Konja experienced options and leadership as the roster turns over.
Spine of the XI
Up front: Covelli (F) to stretch back lines and provide a scoring focal point.
Midfield engine: Ethan Antaran (M) to connect phases and settle a young group.
Back line: Diago Monroy-Hernadez (D) and Dhruz Patel (D) anchor a rebuilt defense.
In goal: Jordan Moomaw (GK) brings a steady presence as the last line.
What to watch
Youth movement: With seven starters gone, early-season minutes will fast-track development for first-time regulars.
Set-piece moments: Narrow margins decided Woodhaven’s biggest games last year; improved delivery and marking could flip results in league play.
Conference race: Navigating the Downriver grind with a new-look XI will be the barometer for postseason readiness.
Key Returners
Benedetto Covelli, F
Sachal Chaudhry, utility
Kris Maxhari, utility
Projected Contributors
Ethan Antaran, M
Diago Monroy-Hernadez, D
Jordan Moomaw, GK
Dhruz Patel, D
Outlook: Woodhaven’s path back to the Downriver League playoffs runs through a firm defensive base and Covelli’s end-product. If the midfield settles quickly behind Antaran and the rebuilt back line gels, the Warriors have the profile to turn last year’s near-misses into late-season wins.
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