Jake Young | Lakeview soccer

Although he hasn’t been a Bulldog for life, Jake Young was key in turning Lakeview into one of the most consistent programs in the area.

“It all started with a great coaching staff,” Young said.

Head coach Nate Mailach was named NSCAA/Adidas Region IV coach of the year and was nominated for the national coach of the year honor that will be announced in January.

Young has been playing soccer year-round since he was 4 years old. His mother was an all-state player in Michigan, which is where Jake is from. He moved to the area at the end his sophomore year when his step dad was transferred to a job in Lordstown.

“Everyone was welcoming,” he said. “I was excited to join the team and just had to focus on keeping my grades in order.”

Young scored 20 goals with 15 assists in his senior season. He earned district and regional player of the year honors, too.

“I’m kind of happy about all my achievements,” he said. “I’ve put a lot of hard work in.”

Lakeview had its best season in school history with an 18-2 record in 2012. The Bulldogs went to the regional semifinal in back-to-back years.

“I’m ready to go on to the next stage and hoping well for my teammates next year,” Young said.

He plans to play soccer at the Division II level and will major in sport management or physical therapy.