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Hauser’s soccer program is making momentous moves.

Coaches Barry Grimes and Kristina Madden, for the men's and women's teams respectively, say momentum surrounding the growing program is setting a pace for building not only increased camaraderie and rapport amongst the players, but a sense of community pride and excitement around the sport.

Since taking over the Hauser soccer program five years ago, 48-year-old Grimes says student co-ed participation levels have not only necessitated the establishment of separate men's and women's teams, but enthusiasm is building among younger players, as well.

Grimes, a father of five, brings a personal love for and relationship with the sport recalling growing up playing on recreation soccer leagues and says he went on to play his sophomore through senior years at Columbus East High School.

What started out as a way to keep in shape during the off season opposite basketball ended up becoming a thing.

“Turns out I was pretty decent at it,” Grimes says.

Similarly, coach Madden grew up in a soccer-focused household “where the game was more than just a sport – it was part of our family identity,” she says. “My dad coached my siblings and me when we were young, and soccer quickly became something we all loved and shared. I continued my playing career at Ball State University, where I had the opportunity to compete at the collegiate level.”

As the second year for the women’s soccer program kicks off, Madden – who serves as Dean of Students at Hauser – says she’s thankful to be a part of it.

Following a strong start to the summer – boosted by double-digit attendance at workouts – Madden says the team’s energy and commitment for the season ahead is really encouraging.

The roster this season – compared to previous years – is admittedly young, the coaches say, but make no mistake, this season is anticipated to set records.

After graduating six seniors in 2025, this season is anticipated to be a rebuilding year comprised mostly of a handful of juniors, several sophomores and a few freshmen, Grimes explains.

“We are going to be around 16 to 18 kids,” Grimes says. “That is OK, but not fantastic, but we are heading in the right direction.”

In addition, the junior high soccer program is expected to have really high numbers this season, he says.

Since taking over for Andy Hunnicutt half a decade ago, Grimes has spent a lot of time and effort on the field, been witness to a lot of changes, and says they’re just getting started.

“We just purchased new goals for the field,” Grimes says. “Last year we had a flag and flag post donated. They built the new press box a couple of years ago. And this year they are putting in new bleachers and fence.”

Building pride in the program is just part of it, Grimes says.

The Future Jets soccer program – which is open to kiddos in pre-K through sixth grade – had nearly 100 participants this year.

“I’m working from the ground up, so getting the younger ages and trying to get them interested,” Grimes says.

And there’s building community excitement, too.

“Obviously we are trying to create some enthusiasm and excitement throughout the community of Hope and put soccer on the map,” he says. “Hauser has never won a sectional in soccer and that is a goal we are working towards.”

When Grimes isn’t in the classroom or on the field, he is passing his love of the sport on to four of his five children who are currently playing soccer at all different levels, he explains proudly.

In addition to honing valuable skills for the field, soccer offers an autumn opportunity for athletes that doesn’t involve just running, he adds.

“It gives more of a team atmosphere where you are relying on the entire team to help determine the outcome of the game,” Grimes says. “It gives athletes a third sport.”

Madden says getting touches on the ball is something that still brings her joy and keeps her grounded.  

“It’s incredibly rewarding to pass on that love for the game and to be a positive influence, both on and off the field,” Madden says. “While we’re still building, the enthusiasm and work ethic of these players gives me a lot of confidence in where we’re headed.”