History made as Dodge City takes soccer title

DODGE CITY, Kan. (Catch it Kansas) - Dodge City boys' soccer went 20-0 this season, winning its second 6A state title in the last five years on Saturday with a 3-0 win over Olathe East. The Red Demons are now the only program in Kansas boys' soccer history to have two different undefeated state championship seasons.

“I told the boys the only thing that could’ve stopped us from winning the title was if they canceled the season,” said head coach Saul Hernandez. “Thank God we made it through and pulled it off.”

Dodge City outscored its opponents 110-7 on the year, and senior forward Alan Lopez is a big reason why. Lopez led the team with 26 goals on the season and finished his career as a Red Demon with 80 career goals.

“Winning a state championship is amazing and a dream come true,” said Lopez. “I have been chasing a state championship all four years and I’m happy to be able to say I got one ring.”

The Red Demons shut out opponents in all but four games. Senior goalkeeper Carlos Sanchez came up with save after save in the championship, including a PK that would’ve been the equalizer in the second half.

“We never really thought about going undefeated,” Sanchez said. “We just thought of ending as champs and that’s what we did. It felt amazing.”

Dodge City has emerged as arguably the best high school boys' soccer program in the state.

“There is a lot of talent here in Dodge City for every age category,” Lopez said. “I’m sure it’s not going to be the last time Dodge City wins a state championship.”

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