Meridian High School’s soccer team has been acknowledged for its outstanding performance in the Virginia High School League Class 3, with senior forward Fletcher Saaty receiving the Player of the Year award and head coach Nathan Greiner being named Coach of the Year.
The team’s season concluded with a victory in the state championship, marking their 13th title. The final match against Western Albemarle ended with a 2-1 score, with Saaty scoring the decisive goal.
Saaty completed his high school career with notable statistics, including 27 goals and 22 assists in his final season. Over his four-year varsity tenure, he accumulated 41 goals and 36 assists across 45 games.
Coach Greiner’s accolade as Coach of the Year is his second such honor, having previously received it in 2023. Under his guidance over three seasons, Meridian achieved a record of 44 wins, 14 losses, and three draws. The team’s recent championship ties them with Blacksburg for the most boys’ soccer titles in VHSL history.
In addition to these individual honors, seven players from Meridian were selected for all-state teams. Alongside Saaty on the first team are seniors Henry Brown (forward), Ben Beloe (midfield), Amin Shams (midfield), Suriyan Cushamn (defense), and Aidan Bakewell (defense). Freshman Zack Miller was named to the second team as a forward.
The Mustangs finished their season with a record of 17 wins, two losses, and two draws. This marks their second championship win in three years under Greiner’s leadership. His coaching career includes ten seasons as an assistant coach during which Meridian secured ten state championships.
Greiner’s contributions have solidified his reputation as one of Virginia’s leading soccer coaches. Before becoming head coach, he spent a decade as an assistant coach contributing to Meridian’s longstanding success.
The Falls Church City Public Schools community has extended congratulations to Coach Greiner, Fletcher Saaty, and all involved in Meridian High School’s soccer program for their achievements this season.
