By JOHNNY PEPPO

Sports Editor

Success on the field for East St. John in soccer this year resulted in accolades and post-season recognitions for the two squads.

For ESJ’s boys district runner-up standing, after defeating Destrehan for the first time this year and again in their final game of the regular schedule, the Wildcats placed five players on the all-district first team. That includes the defensive MVP in Ricky Grinstead. Goalkeeper Kris Hoffpauir got the nod to the first squad, as did offensive players Terrance Crushfield and Steven Haniford.

Paul Lapierre made the all-district first team on defense.

&#8220They worked hard for us this season and they deserve the notice,” said ESJ coach Paul Dupuy. &#8220It was one of our more successful years to date. And it’s because these kids stepped up.”

Receiving honors on the second team for the Wildcats was Brandon Trant. Brad Wandrei and Tyler Hazett were each recognized with an honorable mention.

On the year, the team brought ESJ’s season soccer record to 6-2 in league play, bettering their standings from a year ago when they trailed Hahnville and Destrehan. But that gap appears to be closing as Hahnville made a comeup to take the district title from Destrehan and ESJ took the runner-up.

&#8220We had a lot of seniors on the team this year,” said Dupuy. &#8220Hopefully for next season, some of those younger guys picked up on some of that experience and will help us continue to make strides here for ESJ soccer..”