Cassville Lady Cats soccer is being led this season by senior Lexie Sanders, who serves as a team captain while serving her country.
You could call Sanders a field general for Cassville.
“She’s just a really talented player. She’s physically strong, she’s always played with a sort of physical edge,” Cassville soccer coach Jake Forste said.
When the Lady Cats need a goal, they look for her:
“She’s got a couple of skill moves that allow her to find the back of the net,” added Forste.
She’s also been working on her skills off the pitch.
“I’ve always wanted to join one of the branches, but I talked to my recruiters for the national guard and figured that was the best option for me,” Sanders said.
Sanders joined the Missouri Army National Guard prior to her senior year, juggling her soccer schedule with her new responsibilities.
“It’s kind of difficult, if we were to play two or three games in a week and then we have drill that weekend, it’s kind of physically demanding but nothing I can’t handle,” the Cassville senior said.
And she handles it well.
“Just seen a lot of growth from her just from a personality standpoint in the last year, and the word I would use is confidence. She’s become more confident,” said Forste.
Confidence is just one skill she gained and translated to her soccer game.
“I think I’m more determined now and disciplined than I was before I joined,” Sanders said.
As her senior season winds down, and her military career begins, she’s using those skills to make the most of her last ride as a Lady Cat.
“Helps me also to leave everything out on the field, my drive and determination to finish the game out with my whole heart,” said Sanders.
