Junior Sebastian Gryglak has been a dependable force for Lockport as a defensive midfielder, teaming with younger brother Dominik, a sophomore defender, to help shut down the opposition.
But Sebastian also relishes his opportunities to get up the field and join the attack.
“It’s just the freedom of getting the ball and moving, getting to dribble,” Sebastian said. “That’s the thing about soccer — I want to enjoy it. I can’t be too stressed about winning or losing.
“As long as I go out there and enjoy myself, that’s the best thing I can do.”
Sebastian Gryglak produced a moment of pure joy Tuesday night, scoring his second goal of the season to give the Porters a lead in the first half.
But Hinsdale Central rallied as Austen Szurgot scored with 1:12 to go broke Lockport’s hearts and sent the Red Devils to state with a 2-1 win in the Class 3A Morton Supersectional in Berwyn.
Kacper Sikon had an assist and Matas Odinas made six saves for Lockport (17-5-1), which was playing in the second supersectional in program history after winning one in 2021 on the way to a third-place finish.
Kostas Zamalaitis also scored for Hinsdale Central (15-8-1), which advanced to take on Hersey (17-3-5) in a state semifinal at 6 p.m. Friday at Hoffman Estates.
Zamalaitis produced the tying goal with 17:47 to go to set up Szurgot’s heroics.
Lockport coach Chris Beal gave credit to the Red Devils afterward.
“We got the first one, but we knew at halftime that we weren’t playing well,” Beal said. “It’s a testament to Hinsdale Central and the way they played. We struggled to deal with it.
“When we play the way we can, we can be very ruthless and we can beat anybody. When we get knocked out of our game, we struggle to get our rhythm and we can panic a bit.”
Sebastian Gryglak gave the Porters plenty of hope in the 32nd minute. Sikon took a free kick from along the right sideline near the corner and curled a ball toward the near post, where Gryglak headed it home.
“I wasn’t really expecting it to come to me, but I was unmarked so I knew there was a chance,” Gryglak said. “I just got into position, really not thinking too much about it, figuring I’d just head it toward the net and see what happens, and a goal was scored.
“It felt great, especially because I don’t score a lot. I focus on defense and then the game rewards me. It makes me happy.”
Sebastian has also loved getting the chance to play with his younger brother, Dominik, who was able to crack the starting lineup as a sophomore.
“It’s been great,” Sebastian said. “He’s always been, let’s just say two steps in front of me, especially because he’s got me as a mentor. He deserves it. He’s here even as a sophomore and he’s still got two more years.
“In two years, I expect him to be better than me. We both push each other to be the best we can.”
Dominik said it has been a challenge being thrust into a major role as a young player, but having his older brother at his side certainly makes things easier.
“It’s helped me a lot having Sebastian here,” Dominik said. “He shows me the way. Sometimes, I don’t even know what jersey to wear to practice and he lets me know. Things like that.
“He just shows me the ropes.”
The Gryglak brothers are looking forward to more big things in 2025.
“Making the top eight in the state series is an achievement, and everyone should keep their head up high and be proud of what we did,” Sebastian said. “Next year, we’re going to come for it again.”
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