Through most the program’s history the Knoxville Boys Soccer Program has not fared well against the more established programs in the area. Coach Jon Smith says Norwalk, Grinnell, and Pella have all given his team trouble during the season. However the Panthers are now not only competing against some of the top teams in the area and Little Hawkeye Conference, but winning those matches. Smith says rival Pella has become a team that the Panthers have become very competitive with. Smith says it simply comes down to a confidence factor. Knoxville beat Pella last year in the sub state final and two years ago defeated the Little Dutch in the sub state semi-finals. Smith adds Pella should be very good again this season and looks forward to the challenge the Little Dutch will bring this season.

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