As the Crestview girls varsity soccer team hits the early part of the season, they have clear goals for their season.
As the season begins, the team has a balanced roster in term of class rank, but continue to build experience. According to head coach Lee Hunt, the team holds 3 freshmen and 5 upperclassmen, who have not played since junior high.
But even with the relative youth on the squad, improvement could lie in one key area: the offense. “I’d like to have confidence with the ball and keep possession,” summarized Hunt. He also added that the team is looking to capitalize on speed and scoring this season.
Forward Abby Motter is a key part of that equation, “I think we have a chance to score a lot more goals.” She also added that she has been working with fellow forward Skylar Campo, “With our improved teamwork, we should be able to work together up top and to hopefully score more goals.”
The Cougars compete in the United Independent Conference. With that conference comes a steep schedule. They’ll face powerhouse Ontario, and perennial competitor Mansfield Christian twice.
For senior Meghan Arnold, a midfielder and forward, her season focus is singular, “I just look to improve from last year.” As she enters her senior season, she noted that the school fosters team camaraderie.
The group of players is not just building their varsity squad; but they also took time to build the larger program this summer.
During the preseason, the team held a soccer clinic for younger players as an effort to pay it forward for the program. Senior Sierra Richards, a midfielder, said “[Our] being able to work with the kids and show them new things will help us build our program.”
Up next, the Cougars host Loudonville at 5 p.m.