Huntingtown Boys Soccer Eyes State Tournament Return With Experienced Defense

HUNTINGTOWN, Md. — Just one overtime loss separated Huntingtown from a trip to the state tournament last season. Now, with an experienced defensive core returning and a program built on steady development, the Hurricanes enter 2026 determined to turn last year’s near miss into a postseason breakthrough.

As the 2026 high school fall sports season kicks off in a few weeks, TheBayNet spoke with Huntingtown High School boys soccer head coach Charlie Russell about last season, offseason preparation, and expectations for the upcoming campaign.

After falling just one win short of a state tournament appearance in 2025, the Hurricanes enter the new season with an experienced defensive core and a commitment to continued development.

“We had a pretty good year,” Russell told TheBayNet. “We made it to the regional finals, we lost in overtime. We had a good group of players. We did have some injuries. We just couldn’t get past the regional finals, but there was a big improvement from the beginning of the season until the end.”

Now entering approximately his 13th or 14th season leading the program, Russell said the expectations remain consistent every year.

“They’re always the same,” Russell said. “You want to improve through the season and hopefully that leads to success when you get into the playoffs.”

While Huntingtown graduated several seniors, the Hurricanes return a strong group of defenders and expect younger players to take on larger roles in the attack.

Russell said one of the biggest positives during the offseason has been the commitment shown by his returning players.

“We’ve got a good core group of guys coming back, and they’ve been committed to training,” Russell said, noting that many players also compete for club teams but continue working to improve.

Replacing the experience and leadership of last year’s senior class will be one of Huntingtown’s biggest challenges entering the season.

“I would say our challenge is going to be filling in the gaps the seniors left behind,” Russell said.

Russell emphasized that success within the program is measured by more than wins and losses.

“It’s always been about the development of the players, both individually and then bringing them together as a team,” Russell said.

That philosophy has guided the Hurricanes throughout the preseason, where the team has emphasized technique, teamwork, and preparing players for the physical and mental demands of a long season.

Defensively, Russell believes Huntingtown should be one of its strongest units because of the experience returning on that side of the field.

Competing in the Southern Maryland Athletic Conference presents another challenge. As one of the conference’s smaller schools, Huntingtown often needs additional time early in the season to build chemistry among players coming from different club programs and age groups.

Russell said his coaching philosophy has remained consistent throughout his tenure, focusing on using soccer to teach lessons that extend beyond the field.

“I would say philosophy is to try to create the best environment in which the players can grow and learn,” Russell said. “Using the game to teach leadership, hard work, dedication, and the rewards that come from putting in the work.”

He hopes his teams are known for their work ethic, commitment to one another, and ability to respond to adversity throughout the season.

The Hurricanes once again will face a demanding SMAC schedule, and Russell believes consistently playing quality opponents is one of the best ways to prepare for postseason competition.

Beyond results on the scoreboard, Russell hopes players leave the program with lessons they can carry throughout their lives.

“They see the reflection of hard work and integrity and how long-term goals are more important than short-term goals,” Russell said.

Russell also expressed appreciation for the continued support from the Huntingtown community, saying fans and local businesses have played an important role in the program’s success over the years.

As the 2026 season approaches, Russell believes the Hurricanes will be an exciting team to watch and hopes the community will come out to support the program.

---