Bismarck High School’s boys soccer team is preparing to challenge for its sixth state championship, with senior captains Camren Haase, Daniel Matthews, and Drew Haberlock leading the charge. The Demons are set to open the state tournament on Thursday at Fargo North High School, where they will face West Fargo Sheyenne. For these captains, the tournament represents more than just a chance to add another trophy to the program’s storied history; it is an opportunity to emulate their older brothers, who were part of Bismarck High's last state championship team in 2019. That victory came seven years ago, and now, these current captains aim to bring the title home once again.
The personal connection to the program's past success runs deep for the three leaders. Each of them had an older brother who played on the 2019 championship squad. Daniel Matthews, a senior forward for the Demons, vividly recalls the impact of watching his brother secure the state title. He described the moment as "the coolest thing ever," inspiring a long-held ambition to achieve the same feat. Matthews views this opportunity as "my chance to win state," emphasizing the collective goal for his team to capture the sixth championship for Bismarck High. He stated that securing this title is "what we plan to do."
The current senior class brings significant experience and cohesion to the state tournament. Having played together for four years, the players share a deep understanding of each other's styles and strengths. This long-standing collaboration has fostered a strong team chemistry and determination, which the seniors believe are essential to competing for a state championship. Camren Haase, a senior center mid, highlighted this bond, noting that "Since preseason, me and our team, our chemistry, we’ve played with each other all four years, I knew this team has what it takes." Haase, who tied for the most points in the West Dakota Association during the regular season, underscored the personal motivation driving the team. He explained that watching their brothers win the state championship left an impression, and the current players "don’t want to be the little bros in the family," indicating that winning "would mean everything" to them.
Beyond their seasoned chemistry, the team also possesses valuable postseason experience from their freshman year. This prior exposure to the high stakes and unique atmosphere of state-level competition has provided the group with an understanding of what is required to perform at such an elevated level. Drew Haberlock, a senior winger, acknowledged the distinct change in environment when playing at the state tournament. He observed that "the environment’s just different" compared to regular season play. Haberlock also noted a palpable sense of purpose within the current squad, comparing it to the drive he saw in his freshman year teammates. He stated, "You can tell that they want to be here. They want to win it," reflecting the team's strong desire to succeed.
Bismarck High will strive to secure its sixth state championship in program history. The journey begins Thursday when they face West Fargo Sheyenne at Fargo North High School, carrying the legacy of past teams and the personal aspirations of its captains.
