Lucas Mejia, Oliver Dostalek propel Locust Valley boys soccer to state Class A semifinals
Locust Valley with the championship plaque after capturing the state Class A Southeast Regional boys soccer final against Rye at Jericho High School on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026. Credit: Derrick Dingle
Oliver Dostalek made sure to do his homework.
The Locust Valley senior goalkeeper made it his mission to study Rye, one of the top teams in the state, on film to learn the team's tendencies and corner-kick plays.
"I watched videos on their strikers and on the free kicks on penalties," Dostalek said. "The first thing I do whenever someone shoots is set, keep my body weight forward, look at where the ball is going, and commit."
His preparation paid off, as Dostalek made 11 saves and secured the shutout in Locust Valley's 2-0 win over previously undefeated Rye in the boys soccer state Class A regional final Saturday evening at Jericho High School. Rye finished 20-1-1.
"We know what it's like to lose and now we know what it's like to win," Dostalek said. "We knew exactly how we were going to play and we needed everyone to be at their best."
Rye challenged Locust Valley early, taking six shots in the first half. But Dostalek stood strong. He consistently made diving saves and helped when a defender got beat to prevent a goal.
"He has high IQ, but he's always been great at communication," coach Joseph Lee said. "This year you've seen his confidence grow, and he's shown up in big moments. It's priceless to have a goalkeeper like that."
Senior forward Lucas Mejia scored in the 31st minute for Locust Valley (16-2). He scored another off a through ball from forward John Guarderas early in the second half.
"We had our doubts, but we know we are a strong team," Mejia said. "We adjusted our game plan, played our game, and came out here and got the job done."
It's been a season of firsts for Locust Valley. The Falcons captured their first county title in Class A, followed by their first Long Island championship, and now it's their first time headed to the state semifinals.
"One thing about this team is we never give up," Mejia said. "We are relentless, and in the end it all pays off."
The Falcons' historic season continues as they will play Jamesville-Dewitt in the state Class A semifinal at 3:15 p.m. Friday at Middletown High School.
Lee, who is retiring after this season, said it's a pleasure to see his team mature and develop.
"I get to teach them as well, and it's such a special thing," Lee said. "We've grown up together. I got to watch other brothers and families come through. So it's like a proud father, and I know they want to give me [a state championship]."
Jonathan Ruban covers high school sports for Newsday after graduating from St. John’s.
