By Kai Raymer (For OzarksSportsZone.com)
Coming off a three-win season, the Carl Junction Bulldogs are keeping things simple.
That means steady improvement, good team chemistry and looking at the big picture: Playing their best in time for districts.
“We want to play hard, stay positive and improve throughout the season to compete at the end of the year in our district tournament,” said Bulldogs coach Ed Miller.
Three seniors lead the way for a young Carl Junction team: Trentin Stump, Caleb Gau and Holden Deer.
Stump emerged as a full-time varsity player last season and will again play a fullback role on defense.
“He’s worked hard in offseason training with his club team,” Miller said.
Like Stump, Gau has played for Carl Junction since his freshman season but got the majority of his varsity experience last year.
Gau brings versatility to the team and will likely play in the midfield again this season, Miller said.
Deer has varsity experience as well and can play in the midfield or at forward.
A pair of juniors will anchor Carl Junction’s defense.
Chris King is set to become Carl Junction’s full-time starting goalkeeper. He split time there last year.
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“Chris has worked hard to improve his positioning and strengthen his punts and goal kicks,” Miller said.
Jaydan Arzet was a varsity contributor last season after transferring in from nearby Thomas Jefferson.
“He also played club ball in the offseason to improve on his skill level,” Miller said. “He will be running our back line this year.”
Midfielder Carsten Bittner is Carl Junction’s top returning scorer. The junior will likely start at center mid this season.
“He can play many positions and has taken on a strong leadership role,” Miller said.
Carl Junction will have to replace a sizeable portion of its roster.
The Bulldogs graduated eight seniors, including all-conference midfielder and co-captain Jose Figueroa (eight goals, two assists).
Also gone are center mid Kolby Nance, fullback Brayden Uber (co-captain), forward Nick Neal (team-high 11 goals), sweeper Easton Sztamenits and forward Jaydon Faucett.
The Bulldogs, who finished 3-16-1 last year, do add a pair of promising rookies to their lineup.
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Freshman midfielder Gavin Cowger has already displayed strong technical skills and fundamentals.
“He sees the field well and will make an immediate impact on our team,” Miller said.
Another freshman, Marcus Emerson, is a forward with good size and potential. He came up through Carl Junction’s local club team.
“Marcus has a good shot and (hopefully) will get on the end of some crosses,” Miller said. “He will bring some skill with him into his freshman season.”
Carl Junction starts the regular season August 31 at Joplin.
The Bulldogs will host a jamboree scrimmage on August 19 with Webb City, College Heights Christian and Thomas Jefferson.
