It is hard to explain to "outsiders" what a special place Mechanicville is. Yes, the boys' soccer team is having an amazing season. Yes, they have already gone farther than any other boys' soccer team in program history. But it is deeper than that. It's different.

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google maps
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"Mechanicville Proud" Means Something

Growing up in Mechanicville and now living there and raising my own family, it is difficult to explain just how unique the community is. Nothing shows this more than attending a Mechanicville sporting event. The community shows up!

Photo Credit: Dan O'Connor
Photo Credit: Dan O'Connor
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Wednesday night the boys' soccer team played at LaSalle Institute and the school, along with the families of the players, and many people in the community held a tailgate party! A tailgate party for a high school soccer team? You bet.

Photo Credit: Dan O'Connor
Photo Credit: Dan O'Connor
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Then they packed the stands in their red and white and cheered loudly for the team. The boys won 3-0 and now head into the regional finals. This is the farthest the program has ever gotten.

A Special Parade Happens After The Team Wins!

After a win, the team bus is met by fire trucks at the top of the hill by the high school. The team, fire trucks, families, and fans make their way through the streets of Mechanicville to celebrate. Residents come out of their homes to wave and applaud the team. It's amazing!

Hillcrest Fire Department
Hillcrest Fire Department
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Mechanicville Boys' Soccer Wants to Win Not Just For the School But The Entire City

Sports are a big part of the fabric of Mechanicville. But the bigger picture is making the hometown community proud. Mechanicville has had its share of state championships. Girls' Soccer had one in 1988, the first state championship ever for the school. The Girls' Softball team won several state championships. But this would be the first for the boys' soccer team. If you ask any of the players, they aren't just playing for the team, they have that community in their hearts with every kick.

Photo Credit: Dan O'Connor
Photo Credit: Dan O'Connor
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Coach Mike Ciulla spoke with Brian & Chrissy on WGNA about this special team and community.

Photo Credit: Dan O'Connor
Photo Credit: Dan O'Connor
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Coach Ciulla also earned his 100th win this season.

Mechanicville Boys' Soccer Hoping For a State Championship

The Mechanicville Boys' Soccer team will take on Plattsburgh at LaSalle Institute in Troy Saturday, November 5th at 12 pm. If they win, they will move on to the New York State semi-finals. GO RED RAIDERS!

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