Howard County boys soccer is kicking off another season, and this year looks as wide-open as the nets during warmups. After River Hill edged Mt. Hebron in a dramatic shootout to claim the 2024 Class 3A state title, parity now rules the pitch.
Several contenders return with talent and ambition. River Hill, still buzzing from last year’s championship, brings back key veterans ready to defend the crown. Glenelg, one of the county’s most experienced squads, is also poised for another deep run. Centennial, Howard, Reservoir, Marriotts Ridge, and Wilde Lake have the rosters to make plenty of noise too. The big twist? Graduation. Most of last season’s first-team All-County stars are gone, opening the door for new playmakers to emerge. Coaches across the county say this is a chance for younger talent to step into leadership roles and redefine programs.
Reclassification also shuffled the deck. Centennial, Howard, and Marriotts Ridge will now battle in the Class 3A North, while Atholton, Guilford Park, Oakland Mills, and Reservoir move into the Class 3A South. The rest—including Glenelg, Hammond, Long Reach, Mt. Hebron, River Hill, and Wilde Lake—compete in Class 2A West. That means fresh rivalries, different playoff paths, and plenty of unpredictability come November.
One thing is certain: fans are in for a show. From underdog stories to powerhouse programs looking to reload, Howard County’s soccer scene promises intensity, drama, and goals that echo through the fall air. Regular season play begins September 5, with the state championships scheduled for November 13–15 at Loyola University’s Ridley Athletic Complex. So lace up, grab your scarf, and get ready—the 2025 Howard County boys soccer season is here, and anyone could be holding the trophy when the final whistle blows.
