Austin Parker was the director that helped lead the Skaneateles boys soccer team to their first Section III, Cass B title since 1989.

The Citizen's boys soccer player of the year scored eight goals and 11 assists, which tied him for the team lead.

“It's a team effort,” Parker said. “I'm proud to know my contribution helped out. An assist is just as good as a goal. It's about getting everyone involved and relying on your teammates.”

Heading into his third year on the varsity team, Parker's main goal was to keep his ankle problems scarce so he could play a full season. In his sophomore year, his broken ankle cost him a majority of time, and then he sprained his ankle in his junior year. However with a little extra support and help from the trainers, he was able to return to full force this season.

“I taped my ankles up quite a bit,” he said. “I also used an ankle brace and that got my ankle strength up over time.”

Parker's goal was the first strike for the Lakers in their 3-0 win that helped them secure their first sectional title in 19 years.

“It was great for us,” Parker said. “It brought the Skaneateles soccer program back to the way it was. It's always been a nice program, but the win kind of got us back on track.”

His senior leadership was a main factor in their success.

“It was pretty special to know that the players were playing for me,” Parker said. “A lot of them knew it was my senior year and they didn't want me to go out without a title.”

The Lakers defense also stepped up a great deal.

“We were just meant for success this year,” Parker said.