THESE LOCAL BUSINESSES SUPPORT OUR ATHLETES

The Eardley Agency Male Athletes Of Month: Alton Boys Soccer Team, Coach Toby Henesey Sparks Early Optimism

The Redbirds edged rival Collinsville 1-0 on Saturday, securing their first win in the series since 2012 and continuing an encouraging start under Toby Hennesey.

Dan Brannan, Content Director

Aug 31, 2026 2:43 PM Aug 31, 2026 4:16 PM

Save

Listen to the story

Freshman Sam Clark already has a goal on the season for the Redbirds. (Photos by Dan Brannan). ALTON — Alton’s boys soccer team earned its first win over rival Collinsville since 2012 on Saturday morning, edging the Kahoks 1-0 in a semifinal match at Alton as the Redbirds continued a strong start under new head coach Toby Henesey.

The victory moved Alton forward in Saturday’s competition and helped build early optimism for a program that finished 6-13-0 last year. The Redbirds are 2-1 overall after opening the season with two wins in their first three matches.

Get The Latest News!

Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.

Alton later lost the title match 3-1 to Marquette Catholic on Saturday evening, but the Redbirds were competitive throughout the match.

The Redbirds also defeated Civic Memorial 2-0 on Aug. 26 before the Collinsville match.

Athlete of the Month is sponsored by

Coach Henesey, an Alton High and Greenville University graduate, brings a strong soccer background to the program. He has been part of the Alton Irish Soccer Club for years, worked with the St. Louis Scott Gallagher group and built ties to Alton players through the Alton Irish.

Senior goalkeeper Patrick Henesey is expected to be one of the area’s best this season after strong efforts in 2025. Jude Cowan and Sam Clark have been among Alton’s top offensive threats to date. Cowan has two goals on the season and Clark has a goal.

Alton is scheduled to play on the road at Mascoutah at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, weather permitting.

Alton boys soccer fans turned out in a large group for the Saturday Alton vs. Marquette championship, shown below.

Alton freshman Brayden Krepel.