The Rye Boys Soccer team advanced to the New York State championship game last season, their first berth on that stage since 1979. Head coach Jared Small has a slew of returning talent at his fingertips ahead of 2026 as he looks to lead his team back to the State tournament, a task which is never easy.
“We’ve got a strong group of players and outstanding assistant coaches, so that’s a nice combination as we head into the season,” Small told MyRye.com. “We’ve put together a challenging schedule so we can learn about ourselves and improve as the season progresses.”
Fresh off a 19-win season, the Garnets are already 1-0, having defeated Sleepy Hollow in their season opener last week. Their second game kicks off tonight at Nugent Stadium against Harrison. It is one of the many home contests which Small knows his group looks forward to every season.
“We especially love the home matches,” the head coach said. “Nugent Stadium is unique and our large, supportive crowds help make it a wonderful environment.”
Small highlighted his team’s matchup with Goshen High School in the Section I vs Section IX challenge on October 12 as one road game to look forward to. Goshen is a strong opponent, and their on-campus field is a “fantastic venue for high school sports,” according to Small.
One of Rye’s biggest strengths comes in the midfield position, where three seniors – Kasen Scarperi, Peter Wilmot, and Alec Dodge Terra – lead the charge. When fully healthy, this unit will be one of the best in the area.
Wilmot and Scarperi are the 2026 co-captains thanks to their consistent leadership and high-quality play. Scarperi scored the game-winner and recorded an assist in the season opener. Both will be asked to contribute to the offense on both set pieces and in regular play.
The veteran midfield is sandwiched between impactful underclassmen. The top two goal scorers from a year ago, Felix Wismer and Connor Dehmer, are both back after netting 17 goals apiece. James Hayashi will bolster the depth among the forwards, who Small noted has “made a massive jump in his level” since last November.
The back line is anchored by senior Filip Glitterstam and enhanced by juniors Harrison Zimmer, Cole Furber, and Christian Hofmann, with junior Will Alexander in goal. “[Our defenders] have all put in a strong preseason and are excellent at their positions,” Small told MyRye.com.
The Garnets’ second game of the year begins at 5:00pm this evening against Harrison. Expectations are high for Rye after last year’s league, sectional, and regional titles.
