The Boulder High School Panthers launched their 2025 season with a dramatic 2–1 win over the Heritage Eagles on Tuesday night, August 26, at Recht Field. Under a light first-half drizzle that left the turf slick, a loud crowd of roughly 500 students and parents brought the energy for Boulder's season and home opener just a week after a "learning experience" scrimmage against Northfield. With nine of eleven starters from last year graduated, this was an important step forward as a retooled lineup settles into new roles.
 

First Half: Late Strike Lifts Boulder

Chances were scarce early, but Boulder gradually found rhythm through the midfield. With about three minutes left in the half, the Panthers won the ball in midfield and played advantage after a hard challenge. A slipped pass by Hayden Neale found Levi Turner racing down the right, and he finished low to the left corner for a 1–0 lead at the break.

Second Half: Equalizer, Then a Winner

Heritage leveled from the spot 14 minutes into the second half. Boulder kept pressing—and for long stretches had the Eagles on their heels—but were repeatedly denied by strong goalkeeping. The breakthrough finally came in the closing minutes: Boulder won the ball along the student-section sideline, worked it to the top of the area, and Mikel Mackey, player of the game, buried a low shot inside the far post for 2–1.

The Panther defense, anchored by Zac Sheinbaum, Will Weber, Dylan Haney, and JT Cunningham only allowed 2 Eagle shots on goal while Boulder found the frame 11 times. Senior goalkeeper Joey Schwab played the full 80 minutes and made two saves to secure the result.
 

Tradition Continues

As the final whistle sounded, the Panthers celebrated with one of Boulder High's signature moments—the 50-yard player tunnel. Every player takes part, whether they logged 80 minutes or supported from the sideline—an enduring expression of Boulder Soccer's "La Familia."

Final: Boulder 2, Heritage 1.

Next up: Boulder travels to face Ralston Valley on September 4 at 7:00 PM at the North Area Athletic Complex (NAAC).

Check Out Game Photos