Delfin in a game against Lee Photo by Kyle Thornton

Delfin all-state selection

Staff Report

Tallassee sophomore soccer player Irvin Delfin has been selected to the AHSAA coaches all-state first team. The honor recognizes 23 players regardless of classification. Delfin is one of only three underclassmen on the squad.

After a 15-4 season, the 2023 Tigers set the program's single-season record for wins. Delfin set his own record for goals scored (30) surpassing the high mark of 28 set by Will Blocker last season. Tallassee scored 126 team goals and allowed just 22 - also team records.

"Irvin is a special player," Coach Matthew Tarpley said. "He was a quality player when he got to Tallassee, but now he has learned 'how' to play. He worked tirelessly and strove to get his teammates involved this year which led to more chances for himself."

In addition to the 30 goals, Delfin added 11 assists.

"I felt confident that he would earn a spot on the 5A all-state team," Tarpley added, "but to be selected by all of the high school coaches throughout the state as one of the best midfielders in the entire state, regardless of classification or school size, is truly remarkable."

Delfin has been playing soccer for ten years and his earliest memories are of playing with his dad and uncles as a child. He dreams of playing in college and making a better life for himself and his family. He will spend the upcoming fall season playing with the Auburn Soccer Club.

Despite the overall great season, Tallassee missed the playoffs - something Delfin would like to change next year.

"I want to go to the Final 4 in Huntsville next year," he said. "After seeing Elmore County get there this year - after we smashed them twice, just serves as motivation for me. It reminds me that every game counts and we have to be ready for anyone and everyone. I know Coach Tarpley has scheduled us some tougher opponents for next spring and I am excited for that."

Tarpley concurred.

"I wanted to challenge the boys a bit more in 2024, so that they will be ready for Huntsville when we get there. We added games at St. James, Opelika, Stanhope, Pike Road and Russell County to help prepare us for a long playoff run. I am excited. The boys are excited. We can't wait to get started."