By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

HELENA–The Helena High School boys soccer team had an incredible run to the AHSAA 5A semifinals last season in year one as a program, and this year the Huskies are looking to build on that success in year two.

Helena boys soccer head coach Zach Morgan said he implemented an offseason training, weight lifting and conditioning program to help better prepare his team for the 2016 soccer season.

“Once we got back from the semifinals last year we knew we had to get bigger, faster and stronger because you have to go against the best of the best,” said Morgan. “Last year being a brand new school we had to learn what we needed to do to prepare ourselves. This year, we got a summer program that included weight training and running.”

The Huskies lost offensive weapon Matt Sheets as well as Alex Owens and Seth Key but will be returning a boat load of seniors this season who are sure to be a vital part of the Huskies success.

Helena returns 16 total seniors, including starting goalkeeper and AHSAA All-Star Game MVP Phildon Dublin from a year ago who are sure to have a big impact on the season.

Helena will also benefit from two players returning this season from injuries. Both Jeremy Hughes and Pedro Costa will return after missing playing time last season.

Helena will battle area opponents Calera, Montevallo and Jemison this season before moving up to 6A after the recent AHSAA reclassifications were announced.

“I asked the team what our goal was for this season and they definitely want to at least try and get back to where we were last year,” said Morgan. “This year we feel like with returning most of the starters and bringing in a younger group we feel like we have a good chance of getting back.”

Helena begins the season at home against Shades Valley on Feb. 10.