Donovan Ahart didn’t have his soccer season follow the script he expected, but he and his Rough Rider teammates can cherish some memories.

Catty fell one game short of a District 11 Class 2A playoffs when they finished with an overall 4-6 record.

“I am proud of what we achieved and almost achieved,” said the senior co-captain. “I will miss playing soccer for this team as the memories I have made are irreplaceable.

“Being the voice of reason as a captain when they just wanted to scream and shout is truly a rewarding experience. My coaches trusted and had faith in me.”

Head coach Josh Inman watched his team drop a 5-0 loss to Northwestern and then they suffered a 1-0 decision to Dieruff on a late goal the following evening. They began that week with a 10-2 blowout win over Salem Christian. The Roughies played their last three games over a span of four days to end the season.

“It was a devastating loss,” said Inman about the Dieruff loss. “If we win that game, we get to .500 and we make districts. We weren’t at 100 percent for the Northwestern game, and I had been trying to rest some players.

“These kids put a lot of effort into the season, but we just fell short. I think the Dieruff game took a toll on them. It also really took a toll on the staff.”

Derek Troxell, another co-captain and one of 10 seniors, didn’t expect a tragic ending.

“It was really heartbreaking especially the way it ended losing in the last two minutes,” said Troxell. “I never thought my career would end like that needing a win to make the district playoffs.

“My four years of soccer went extremely fast. Coach Inman and Coach Jamal believed in me since day one and knew I could become a great player and leader.”

Inman noted that the team will bring back 12 players, all who saw significant time. He sees three strong candidates in goal, led by soon-to-be senior Wesley Fotta. Fellow incoming senior Luis Del Rosario should pace the offense.

“We will have a big junior class next year,” said Inman. “But it will be a tough year to fill many holes. It’s tough to see this senior class go.

“We thought we gave them the best chance to win every game. This was a memorable season in many ways, and we’ll be rebuilding for next year.”