fernando9

Was at Bearden last night to watch Bearden v Webb. Pitch looks very good and the anticipated rain for Thursday may not be as bad as first thought. Fingers crossed. Looking forward to some strong games.

Bearden Invitational next Thursday - Sunday should begin to give a good idea about many Knox teams with great local lineup and visiting teams: Bearden, Farragut, CAK, Hardin Valley, Oak Ridge, Webb, Maryville, etc. locally plus out of town heavies like Science Hill, CPA, Hendersonville, etc. Should be lots of great soccer if the event doesn't bring its annual monsoon of rain that always seems to unfortunately coincide with the tourney.

My opinion (from very limited viewings or information): Hardin Valley has the best senior talent and likely will be best around from what I have been told, but haven't watched them yet. CAK has new coach and tons of firepower offensively, probably two of the very best players in the entire area. I think if they can find consistency at defense and their big guns offensively can feel comfortable to work well together, should be very strong. Young team so may be even better next year. Bearden also has new coach and also young team but appears back on the upswing. Three kids in the midfield area who are contributing that didn't even play in the program last year. Will be good but probably a year away. Farragut has some big speed weapons on the wings that will cause major trouble for other teams. Couldn't tell much as they played a much weaker opponent, but they are strong. No surprise. Catholic will have some trouble I think. Liked the way they attempted to play, but don't think they have the depth this year to compete at a high level for the entire season. Again (broken record), but I've been told they are young as well. Sure Maryville and Oak Ridge will be strong as well, but haven't seen or heard much about them.

New here and first post, but long time lurker. Thanks for the forum, as I've always found it interesting. Curious the thoughts for those who know better what Knoxville area teams will be strong this year? Seen a few area teams (Farragut, CAK, Bearden, Catholic) play already but mainly in scrimmages and wondering what others had seen.