The Southern Boone School District is pleased to announce the hiring of Lajos Zadravecz as the new head boys soccer coach at Southern Boone High School.
Zadravecz has spent the past two years as an assistant coach for the Southern Boone boys and girls soccer programs, helping support the continued growth of both programs while building strong relationships with student-athletes.
A former collegiate goalkeeper at Southwest Baptist University, Zadravecz played four years for the Bearcats and ranks fourth in program history with 225 career saves.
Outside athletics, Zadravecz works for the Missouri Department of Labor, where he manages a team of application developers. He and his wife moved to the Ashland community in November 2023 and quickly embraced the welcoming environment and strong community support throughout Southern Boone.
Southern Boone Activities Director Trent Tracy said Zadravecz’s leadership, familiarity with the program and passion for student-athletes made him a natural fit for the position.
“Lajos has already made a positive impact on our soccer programs during his time as an assistant coach,” Tracy said. “He cares deeply about our student-athletes, understands the culture we want to continue building and brings a strong knowledge of the game. We’re excited to see him lead our boys soccer program moving forward.”
Zadravecz said the opportunity to lead the program is meaningful and rewarding.
“To be able to give back to this game that has given so much to me throughout my life is truly special,” Zadravecz said. “I recognize the impact coaches can have on young people, and I hope to help guide our student-athletes to success not only on the field but beyond it as well.”
Zadravecz said he plans to bring a disciplined, defense-focused style of play to the program while emphasizing respect and accountability.
“I bring a very defensive-minded approach to the game of soccer,” he said. “The old saying that ‘defense wins championships’ really hits home for me. I expect our teams to be disciplined, competitive and to play the game with a strong sense of respect. When you respect the game, the game will respect you back.”
Tracy said he looks forward to the future of the program under Zadravecz’s leadership.
“We’re excited about the energy, character and vision Lajos brings to this role,” Tracy said. “He has already shown a strong commitment to Southern Boone and our students, and we believe he will continue building a program that our school and community can be proud of.”
Zadravecz will begin his new role immediately as preparations begin for the upcoming season.
Coach Wade Vandelicht will continue serving as head coach of the Southern Boone High School girls soccer program.