![Watching a small group scrimmage, Ben Lundt, St. Louis City SC goalkeeper and founder of Lundt Pro Soccer Training, shouts words of encouragement to players on Sunday, April 26 n the Lafayette grass soccer field. “The idea behind [the event] was to bring the professional soccer players closer to the community because usually people only get to see us on TV or in the stadium. [Families] actually having the opportunity to have their kids on the field with us is the most important aspect,” Ben Lundt said.](https://lancerfeed.press/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/IMG_6823-1200x800.jpg)
![In celebration of winning his second straight state title in the 215 weight class, junior Carter Brown backflips before leaving the mat. Brown won his bout against junior Kobe Rhymes of North Kansas City High School by fall in just 41 seconds. "Carter does what Carter does. We expect [success] out of him and his goals are bigger than the state championship," coach Sam Ritchie said.](https://lancerfeed.press/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_2784-1200x800.jpg)
With the winter signing day on Feb. 2, six more Lafayette students have signed letters of intent to play collegiate athletics. Among them are seniors Jimmy DeStefano and Thomas Swoboda, who were both key contributors to the Lafayette football team over the past two years.
On defense, DeStefano led the team in tackles this past season despite missing action due to injury. Swoboda had a solid season on both offense and defense, with four rushing touchdowns and 21 total tackles. They will be combining their talents again next season after both committing to William Jewell College on athletic scholarships.
“[DeStefano signing to Jewell also] played a role in my decision. He’s a great player,” Swoboda said.
On his team at Lafayette, he added, “I’ll miss being with my teammates and going out and playing on Friday nights with all the fans.”
The four other seniors that signed include:
Jessica Hanson signed a letter of intent for soccer at Illinois State University. Hanson scored three goals and had six assists in the 2010 season.
Mick Lyons signed for Palm Beach Atlantic University for tennis.
Meagan Schneider committed to St. Louis University for soccer.
Nick Tolmais signed a letter of intent for soccer at Truman State University. Tolmais finished the 2010 season with eight goals and nine assists.
