Boys’ Soccer

Program Overview

Poly’s Boys’ Soccer program takes inspiration from the centuries old Bonsai trees at the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens, and the effort put forth by many who sought no credit to shape and preserve something beautiful for hundreds of years. Everyone involved in the program understands they are representing something bigger than themselves, and the pursuit of on-field excellence is grounded in the values of humility, gratitude, and joy. 

The program is highly competitive and welcomes and encourages players with a passion for the sport to try out and become part of a team that builds skills, discipline, and a strong sense of teamwork.

The program competes in the Ivy Prep League for a two month fall season with both Varsity and JV teams, but it is a year round family that includes specialist soccer players pursuing collegiate athletics, multi-sport athletes who are cross-training, and students who just love the beautiful game.  

The team has a multi-week preseason that includes significant physical training and some ‘double’ sessions,  which takes place in mid second half of August and participation is expected for all program members. During the season, participation is 4-6 days a week for varsity players and 3-5 days a week for JV players.

Can’t make it to the pitch? Families and friends can stream Blue Devil soccer action via Locallive.tv and On-Demand video. 

Boys’ Soccer Head Coach

Matthew Pavlich

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Education: Vassar College, BA

Boys’ Soccer Head Coach Matt Pavlich joined Poly Prep in 2022 and has the second most Ivy Prep League wins in program history to date after the legendary Gerald Stone. A lifelong student of soccer, he was a two-time Liberty League Academic All-Conference selection at Vassar. After graduation, he pursued a career in soccer, primarily as a coach in New York City. 

Pavlich has been a part of a Nationally Ranked High School program at Martin Luther King (Assistant Coach 2016-21) and has extensive club coaching experience, including being the only New York City based club coach to reach the National Academy League playoffs with a High School Boys team in each of its first three years of existence (2023-25; National Championship Game Appearance in 2024). 

Pavlich holds a United Soccer Coaches “Premier” Diploma and the USC “Director of Coaching Diploma.”He completed the Statsbomb “Set Pieces” Course and is a current candidate for his USSF “C” license. Along with coaching at Poly, he  is also a coach for Brooklyn Albion Soccer Club.

“I’m extremely thankful for Coach Matt’s leadership. His ability to both coach and create camaraderie helped lift up the team to perform. He gave me the opportunity to captain, and the skills I gained gave me confidence that continues to serve me as a student athlete today.” – Ollie Schiff-Stein ’23

Soccer Facilities

Poly soccer teams practice and compete at the Steinberg Athletic Complex.