By Chris Parker
West Plains girls soccer will look to climb the Ozark Conference standings in coach Amy Lipford’s first season as head coach.
“We have a strong group of returning starters; most of them have years of experience on the field and can all be leaned on for leadership,” Lipford said. “The girls realize to win; this will be a team effort; we can’t just lean on one player to do all the work.”
Juniors Lexus Casey (center-mid), Bella Ovalle (defender) and Baleigh Miller (goalie) along with senior Mia Thomas (midfield) will be the team’s leaders.
Lipford on Casey: “We will use her to make things happen. She transitions well from defense to offense. I look for her to score as well as make great things happen up front.”
Lipford on Ovalle: “Could play anywhere, however this season for her speed she is needed in the back.”
Lipford on Miller: “Miller had to step in last season and, under those circumstances, played well and learned a lot. She has been working hard in the off season and I am excited to see her in the goal again.”
Lipford on Thomas: “Mia Thomas is zoned in and ready to play, you can see the drive every time she takes the field.”
Emma Worsham will be the team’s key forward in her junior season.
“Emma has an amazing attitude and is never without a smile,” Lipford said. “The girl just doesn’t quit or back down. She is one of the most aggressive players we have and I am excited to see her up front.”
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Junior Libby Liimatta will join Casey in the midfield.
Tori Lipford (sophomore) will be another key defender alongside Ovalle.
“Both Bella and Tori have played off and on for years together and make a great defensive team in the back,” Coach Lipford said. “They both read plays well and know how to direct traffic. Both are very aggressive players.”
Maggie Viers will also contribute at defender.
Kennedi Keller will find her way on the field as well.
“This girl (Keller) can play anywhere and do it well,” Lipford said. “Last season she will used everywhere but goalie and I don’t anticipate this season to be any different. Depending on where other girls step up, I would love to see her upfront making plays and scoring goals.”
West Plains opens the season on Mar. 20 at home against Marshfield.
“Win or lose, I want them to love what they are doing,” Lipford said. “I want them all to feel good about themselves and what they did on the field. Several players are being asked to play in positions they are not as familiar with, for the betterment of the team. They do this no questions asked and with a great attitude.”
