BURRILLVILLE – The Burrillville High School boys soccer team had the top coach and player in their division this year according to the Rhode Island Interscholastic League, an achievement recognized this week by the the Burrillville School Department.
Division III Player of the Year Ethan Withington and Coach of the Year Steve Kuk received citations and praise at the School Committee meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 9.
The Bronco team had an impressive 2025 season with a trip to the Division III Championship, where they finished as runners up to Toll Gate in a 2-1 loss.
The awards, given to just one player and coach annually in each division, recognized both the player and team’s progress. By comparison, the BHS boys soccer team won just two games in the 2023 season, prior to the start of Kuk’s reign as head coach.
Withington began his soccer career with the Burrillville Glocester Youth Soccer Association, and in his junior year at BHS, he was the state leading scorer across all divisions, scoring 28 goals and 6 assists.
Now a senior, Withington broke a school record in 2025 season – scoring the most career goals in BHS history in his four years as a varsity player with 62. The striker was named player of the match for three games in his final year with the Bronco team.
“Ethan had a remarkable season and is now the BHS boys soccer all time goals leader,” said Supt. Michael Sollitto of the well-earned recognition. “It was a fantastic season as the team compiled 17 wins and a championship appearance.”
Kuk noted that Withington possesses leadership qualities both on and off the field, fostering a positive team culture
“He is a respectful, humble, and dependable individual who leads with integrity and demonstrates outstanding sportsmanship,” noted Kuk. “These characteristics have earned Ethan the respect from his fellow teammates.”
“These awards are not just handed out without a lot of thought about the student’s character on and off the field as well as the abilities as a player,” noted School Committee Chairperson Terri Lacey. “We as a committee and a school district are so proud it was given to one of our students and we wish you nothing but the best as you continue your education and your soccer career wherever that may be
Kuk, who was named head coach for Bronco boys soccer in 2024, also coaches with the Mach 1 Futbol Club, where he serves as goal keeper coach. He previously served as keeper coach for Smithfield High School and owns SKGK Training, where he’s offered one on one and group training for goal keepers since 2020.
In a post recognizing the award, the team congratulated the coach, a Pascoag resident, describing him as “a true leader who continues to build a legacy of dedication and brotherhood at BHS.”
“He encourages excellence in each one of his players on and off the field,” the team noted.
Sollitto noted that the selection was made by Kuk’s fellow coaches, making the recognition, “something to truly be proud of.”
“It’s an honor to have you representing our school district,” School Committee Chairperson Terri Lacey told Kuk.
Citations for both player and coach offered the district’s “sincerest congratulations and best wishes.”
“The BSD salutes you on this tremendous accomplishment,” it noted. “Go Broncos.”
