Naperville North’s senior midfielder, Dylan Healy, holds dear the memory of winning the Class 3A state championship last season. Healy, committed to Kenyon, stands as the lone returning starter for the Huskies and one of the few with notable varsity experience.
The Championship Legacy
Healy expressed the joy of the victory, saying, “The experience was awesome. The whole school got involved with the different events we had to celebrate our win.” This marked the Huskies’ fourth state title in the past decade and fifth in their history.
Focus on the Future
As a third-year starter and second-year co-captain, Healy remains focused on preparing the younger players. He emphasizes the importance of hard work: “The idea that we won state is amazing, but now obviously I’m passing it down to the younger kids. I tell them it’s not easy because we worked our (rears) off to get there. I tell them you have to work hard and you have to go day by day because even though the season is super short, each day feels long, and they need to keep putting in the work to get there.”
Healy joined the team as a sophomore after a year playing academy. Initially, he took a quieter role on one of the most talented teams in the state. Now, he leads as the main figure.
“He’s always led by example,” coach Konrad noted. “But last year into this year you see him blossoming into a true leader in every way.”
Healy’s growth is crucial for the team’s success. Konrad added, “We need it this year. It’s the youngest we’ve ever been in my career, so it’s going to take a lot to match what we’ve done over the last 20 years.”
Game Strategy
Last season, Healy contributed one goal and nine assists. This year, he plans to be more aggressive. “I’m going to be a goal scorer, at least the one creating the chances,” Healy said. He aims to work closely with senior forward Will Boniface, who noted their strong chemistry: “It’s going to be awesome because we already have team chemistry. I know I’m going to be seeing a lot of balls from him, and he’s going to have a lot of assists, I hope.”
Healy and Boniface also connect off the field, playing together on weekends to keep improving. Boniface commented on their bond: “He’s a great guy. He’s not only a great player, but he’s a great leader. He’s one of my best friends.”
The Influences and Future Aspirations
Healy is praised for his dedication, reminiscent of 2026 graduate Sam Hess, now at Indiana. Konrad acknowledged Healy’s drive: “Dylan is a little different style but kind of the same mindset of doing the right thing all the time. Just like Sammy did, he’s going to work harder than everybody else on the field. If he makes mistakes, he’ll be the first one to say he made a mistake.”
Continuing a family tradition, Healy will play for Kenyon, inspired by his parents’ athletic history at West Florida. With a 4.19 GPA, he plans to pursue investment banking and appreciates Kenyon’s connection to Chicago.
Coach Konrad expressed pride, “I’m proud of Dylan for making the choice to play soccer as he pursues a great academic situation. And as a huge Harry Potter fan, I think Kenyon looks like Hogwarts.”
Healy aims to finish his high school journey with another impressive season. Reflecting on his past years, he said, “It went by in a blink, but it is pretty exciting because I’ve been to state. This is my third year, so I have a lot of knowledge with the team and the league that we play in. We have a bunch of new guys, so hopefully I can help them have the same experience that I did.”
Matt Le Cren is a freelance reporter.
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