Dylan Healy: Leading Naperville North with Experience and Determination

Dylan Healy, a senior midfielder at Naperville North, holds onto the cherished memory of winning the Class 3A state championship last season. As the only returning starter, Healy understands that few of his current teammates share this experience. Healy, who has committed to Kenyon, is among several players with significant varsity minutes.

“The experience was awesome,” Healy shared. “The whole school celebrated our win with various events.” The state title marked the Huskies’ fourth in the last decade and fifth overall. Now in his third year as a starter and second as co-captain, Healy remains focused on guiding the team forward.

“Winning state is amazing, but it’s important to pass that down to younger kids,” Healy noted. “I tell them it’s not easy; we worked hard to achieve it. They need to work hard daily since the season is short, but each day is long.”

Since joining the Huskies as a sophomore after playing academy as a freshman, Healy has steadily developed his skills. Recognized as a leader, Coach Konrad noted, “He’s always led by example and is now blossoming into a true leader.”

This year, Healy’s leadership will be crucial. “We need it this year,” Konrad explained. “It’s the youngest team I’ve coached, so we need strong leadership.”

Healy aims to enhance his role on the field. Last season, he contributed one goal and nine assists as a defensive midfielder. This year, he hopes to increase his goal involvement. “I’m aiming to be a goal scorer or create opportunities,” Healy stated. “I’ll probably be combining a lot with Will Boniface, who’s a strong scorer.”

Boniface, who had four goals and two assists last season from off the bench, looks forward to the collaboration. “It’s going to be awesome because we have team chemistry,” Boniface shared. “I expect to see a lot of passes from Healy, leading to assists.”

In their recent game against Argo, Healy showcased his talent on the field (Jeremy Toney / Naperville Sun). Off the field, his bond with Boniface strengthens team unity. “Healy is a great leader and one of my best friends,” Boniface said. “We practice on weekends, and it has benefitted everyone.”

Replacing 2026 graduate Sam Hess in leadership, Healy maintains his dedication. “Dylan has a different style but the same commitment to doing the right thing,” Konrad mentioned. “He’ll always acknowledge his mistakes and work harder than others.”

Healy continues his family’s sporting tradition by heading to Kenyon, where his parents, Jay and Joanna, played at West Florida. “I’m proud of Dylan for choosing a great academic and athletic path,” Konrad said.

Aiming to become an investment banker, Healy, who boasts a 4.19 weighted GPA, found Kenyon’s campus attractive. “As a Harry Potter fan, I think Kenyon looks like Hogwarts,” Healy humorously added.

Before starting at Kenyon, Healy aims to leave a lasting legacy at Naperville North. “It’s been exciting since I’ve been to state before,” Healy remarked. “I hope to help new teammates experience the same success.”

“This is my third year, so I have a lot of knowledge about the team and the league.” Healy concluded.

Matt Le Cren contributed this report.