Norwin boys leaning on young talent to overcome losses

By: Bill Beckner Jr.
Saturday, August 23, 2025 | 11:01 AM

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A stunning, last-second goal by North Hills sent Norwin reeling – and packing – last season, bringing an end to a potential WPIAL title repeat.

Norwin players still can’t bear to watch the film.

But the Knights have moved on from a 3-2 first-round loss, just like they moved on from four players who left to join the MLS Next program. (They could return next season).

The Knights have flushed it, as the saying goes.

Veteran coach Scott Schuchert’s team has four returning starters: senior midfielder Ian Natale, senior forward Tristian Josephic, senior forward Ryan Schoemer and junior midfielder Logan Plichta.

“We have a very well-balanced, young team that I expect to compete with the best in the WPIAL,” Schuchert said. “We have a ton of talent in our program right now, and the competition within will only help our team succeed. Although we only have four returning starters, we have a lot of depth, which will help meet the demands of the difficult high school soccer schedule.”

Natale brings size and talent to his position, Schoemer quickness and control.

“Ian Natale has all the tools to control the pace of the game,” Schuchert said.

“Ryan Schoemer reminds me a lot of Carter Breen, although he’s left-footed. He’s been phenomenal starting as a freshman and has continued to improve each year. I am excited to see him shine.”

Plichta brings a high soccer IQ to the lineup.

“He’s one of the smartest players on the field and is always in the right place,” Schuchert said. “His technical skills and game awareness set him apart from the rest. He will be the glue that holds us together.”

Junior Reed Hoyle will be the goalkeeper.

“He has the frame and ability to be one of the best goalies in the area now that he’s getting his shot,” Schuchert said.

Four players who likely would have had an impact are nonfactors, at least for this season.

Junior Chase Molinaro, sophomore Turner Raibel and freshmen Christian Wilson and Mateo Yezovich are playing with the MLS Next, a youth developmental league that does not permit players to dual-roster with middle or high school teams.

Schuchert said 4A is “wide open” and considers Peters Township, Seneca Valley, North Allegheny and Plum contenders – along with his Knights.

Bill Beckner Jr. is a TribLive reporter covering local sports in Westmoreland County. He can be reached at bbeckner@triblive.com.

Tags: Norwin