Senior Adrian Mann etched his name into the Harrisburg High School soccer record books with a stellar three-goal performance against Mt. Vernon on Sept. 29. With his third goal of the night, Mann surpassed the previous school record of 62 goals, set in 2015, and now holds the record with 63 and counting.
The record-breaking achievement marks a milestone in Mann’s four-year career at Harrisburg, where he has been a key player for the Bulldogs.
Mann’s success didn’t happen overnight. He has been a dominant force on the field since his early years of playing soccer. According to his teammate, Justin Perez, Mann’s competitive spirit is evident in everything he does. “Whether it be a game or practice, he’s always the most competitive on the field,” Perez said.
The record-breaking game came in a tough 7-4 loss to Mt. Vernon. The Bulldogs struggled in the first half, failing to score. However, Mann provided a spark in the second half, netting three goals. Despite his performance, the Bulldogs couldn’t overcome Mt. Vernon, who added three more goals to secure the win.
Breaking a nine-year-old record is no small feat, especially considering it was set by an outstanding athlete. Mann’s achievement not only cements his place in Harrisburg’s history but also highlights him as one of the top soccer players in southern Illinois.
While the record is now his, Mann remains focused on the team. With only a few games remaining in the regular season, his attention is shifting toward the upcoming playoffs. “I’d rather share an impressive feat with my team than celebrate an individual achievement,” Mann said.
Mann, who has yet to commit to a college, is also an accomplished track athlete, showcasing his versatility in multiple sports.
Whether he’s breaking records or mentoring younger teammates, Mann’s impact on Harrisburg soccer will be remembered for years to come. With aspirations that extend beyond high school, his future remains bright, and his story is far from over. One thing is certain: his name is now firmly placed in the Harrisburg history books.
