Class of 2026 • Jersey #20 • Greater Latrobe Boys’ Soccer

For thirteen years, Simon Bartels has been lacing up his cleats—learning the game, learning himself, and learning how to persevere. Wearing the orange and black has been the capstone of that journey. As a senior, #20 reflects on a career shaped by resilience, teamwork, and the steady support of family and teammates.

Simon credits his older brother with teaching him how to push through hard stretches—wisdom that carried into some of his favorite moments on the pitch. Among them are the back-to-back wins over Penn-Trafford during his sophomore and junior seasons, reminders of the pride that comes with competing for Latrobe and doing it together.

Soccer is only part of Simon’s story. He’s a well-rounded student-athlete involved in track and field, FCA, Math National Honor Society, and the National Honor Society. Off the field, he enjoys playing guitar, competing in pickleball, and spending time with friends. His favorite class—Human Geography with Mr. Saveikis—sparked a curiosity about the world that pairs naturally with the habits soccer built: preparation, perspective, and persistence.

Looking ahead, Simon is exploring collegiate options—including programs such as Duquesne University and Grove City College—with an interest in pursuing Chemistry. Wherever he lands, the discipline and steadiness he developed as a Wildcat will travel with him.

Simon also takes time to recognize the people who made this journey possible. To his parents, Eric and Melissa, he offers heartfelt thanks for the small, everyday acts that add up—warming meals after late practices, waiting up after long away games, and encouraging him through each season. Their support has been a constant, just as his commitment to the team has been a constant for the Wildcats.

For Simon Bartels, soccer has never been just about results. It has been about the long hours, the lessons learned with teammates, and the quiet perseverance that lasts well beyond the field. As he closes this chapter, #20 leaves a legacy of reliability and purpose—and the Wildcats are better for it.