The White County High School Warriors boys’ soccer program enters the 2026 season with a firm sense of identity, a returning core of playmakers, and a coaching staff that believes this group is capable of taking meaningful steps forward. Head coach Cameron Dronebarger, now in his third year leading White County soccer program, said the team has spent the offseason building a foundation that goes well beyond conditioning or tactical work. 

“In the offseason we really focused on being disciplined,” Dronebarger said. “That may sound like coach-speak, but it has truly been our approach. We believe if we lean into discipline and put ourselves through challenges now, we’ll reap the benefits when adversity hits during the season.”  

He said that this mindset has shaped the way the Warriors train, prepare, and hold each other accountable, with the goal of ensuring the group responds consistently no matter the situation or opponent. 

Dronebarger once again has the steady presence of assistant coach Kurt Dronebarger, whose years of coaching experience within the White County School District make him a key voice both on the field and behind the scenes.  

“Coach Dronebarger brings extensive knowledge of the game, and he also does an incredible job with administrative duties like buses, scheduling matches, and several other key aspects,” the head coach said. “We’re really able to share the load, which allows for seamless practices, film studies, and game preparations.” 

One reason for optimism is the amount of offensive production returning. The Warriors bring back several starters who were central to last year’s attack. Dronebarger said he is eager to see what the group can build on as the season unfolds and believes their chemistry will be one of the team’s early strengths.  

On the defensive end, White County replaced several key players, but coaches have been encouraged by the way veteran players have embraced the responsibility of leading a restructured unit. Dronebarger said that upperclassmen on the back line have shown ownership and maturity, and he expects that growth to continue as the team settles into its rhythm. 

Leadership will also play a significant role in how far the Warriors can climb in a competitive district.  

“Two of our best leaders over the past couple of years have been Carter and Mason Lalonde,” Dronebarger said. “They lead through their effort and play, and a lot of our guys look up to them. They create a great example for the rest to follow.”  

Beyond the Lalonde brothers, Dronebarger said there are several upperclassmen with the ability to assert themselves and shape the team’s identity, noting that the challenge now is for those players to embrace what leadership demands on a daily basis. 

The district schedule remains one of the program’s greatest obstacles, as the competition level leaves no margin for complacency. Dronebarger said the message to his players is simple: a single off-night can change the entire trajectory of a season.  

“In our district, you don’t really get a game off,” he said. “Everyone is competitive, and if you choose to take a certain game off, it can cost you your season. That’s why being disciplined in our preparation is imperative.” 

Despite the difficulties of the schedule and the natural adjustments that come with roster turnover, Dronebarger said the team approaches each year with the same standard.  

“Our goals stay the same every year. We want to win every game we step on the field for, and we want the chance to make a postseason run,” he said. “If a loss comes along the way, we want to diagnose the problems and adjust accordingly. A successful season for us is one where we’re playing better soccer each time we step on a field.” 

Follow the Main Street Journal - Sparta for in-season game recaps, big play highlights, and more about the Warriors' soccer program. Spring Sports coverage is brought to you by Sparta Heating & Air Conditioning and will available to all readers with or without a subscription.

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