News Photo by Leslianne Johns Alpena soccer players Reed Leeck, left, and Parker Kaiser, go after the ball in Monday's home opener against Midland Dow.

ALPENA — The Alpena Wildcats boys soccer team enters the 2025 season with a fresh start under new head coach Ken Dragiewicz, who steps into the role following the tenure of longtime coach Gregg Supiran. While Supiran left a strong foundation rooted in teamwork, fitness, and technical growth, Dragiewicz is eager to continue building on that legacy while also shaping the future of the program in his own way.

“Coach Supiran made a significant impact on the program and developed countless players with his years of dedicated coaching,” Dragiewicz said. “I will do my best to continue his focus on teamwork, fitness, and technical skills. Every coach has their own style, and one of my goals for the season is to expand our partnerships with the local soccer community, both with Thunder Bay Soccer Association and the newly formed soccer programs at Alpena Community College.”

With preseason preparations underway, Dragiewicz has been encouraged by how quickly the players have adjusted to the transition. He’s already seen individuals step up to take on new responsibilities and grow into their roles.

“My expectation is for our team to be competitive throughout the season,” Dragiewicz said. “However, these players are student-athletes, so academics, community involvement, and developing leadership skills will be a high priority throughout the season.”

Looking further ahead, Dragiewicz sees the soccer program as more than just wins and losses. His long-term vision focuses on ensuring players find value in their experiences both on and off the field.

“First is to make being part of AHS soccer an enjoyable experience where the players see value in the lessons learned beyond the X’s and O’s of soccer,” he said. “The second part is the community involvement and relationships with the rest of our soccer community.”

The Wildcats head to Traverse City Central on Thursday. As the Wildcats prepare for their upcoming home tournament this Saturday at 10 a.m., Dragiewicz brings a balance of respect for the program’s past and excitement for its future. With competitive goals on the field and an emphasis on growth, leadership, and community, the Wildcats will look to take confident steps forward in this new chapter.