By Denise Tucker (For OzarksSportsZone.com)
The Lebanon Lady Yellowjackets enter the 2024 season looking to improve upon the results from 2023.
The Lady Yellowjackets finished 10-16 overall and 2-8 in the Ozark Conference, before falling to Marquette in the first round of the Class 4 District 4 tournament. Seven of those matches were decided by a single goal, including a few that went to penalty kicks.
“With this being my second season as coach, I feel better prepared to make/fix the decisions during the game,” Lebanon head coach Jacob Woolsey said.
“Our team’s success this season hinges on a unique combination of diverse skill sets, strong team chemistry, tactical intelligence, unwavering work ethic, defensive solidity, creative offensive strategies and impactful leadership. These elements not only define our team’s identity but also equip us with the tools necessary to face and overcome the challenges ahead.”
Back to lead Lebanon this spring are three seniors and two juniors, all of whom bring a great deal of experience.
Mahayla Smith, junior midfielder – “Played a crucial role in our offensive strategy last season,” Woolsey said. “Her ability to control the midfield and create scoring opportunities was instrumental in our attack, showcasing her exceptional skills and understanding of the game. Her presence on the field significantly contributed to the team’s overall performance, making her an invaluable asset to our squad.”
Destiny Stokes, senior defender – “A three-year varsity stalwart, has been a foundational element of our defense for several seasons. Her consistent performance and leadership on the back line have been pivotal in maintaining our team’s defensive integrity. Destiny’s experience and tactical understanding have made her an indispensable part of our squad, providing stability and inspiration to her teammates. Her contribution over the years has left an indelible mark on our team’s ethos and success.”
Addy Collins, senior midfielder – “With three years of varsity experience, Addy has been a dynamic force in our midfield. Her exceptional touch and speed with the ball have been key to creating numerous scoring opportunities for our team. Addy’s ability to navigate through tight spaces and deliver precise passes has made her an instrumental part of our attacking strategy. Her contributions have not only been vital in setting up goals but also in maintaining the flow and tempo of our gameplay. Addy’s talent and dedication have greatly enhanced our offensive capabilities, making her a standout player in our lineup.”
Jenna Rosen, senior defender – “Jenna has been exemplary both on and off the field. Her consistency in performance has been matched by her unwavering positive attitude toward her teammates. Jenna’s reliability in defense has provided a solid foundation for our team, while her optimistic presence has been a source of motivation and team spirit. Her ability to maintain high standards in her play, coupled with her supportive nature, has made Jenna a beloved and respected figure within our squad. Her contributions go beyond just defense, enriching the team’s environment and fostering a culture of positivity and resilience.”
Zylynn Dozier, junior forward – “Possesses a remarkable knack for advancing the ball toward the goal, a testament to her relentless determination and exceptional work ethic. Her innate ability to consistently position herself where the action is reflects her proactive approach to the game. Zylynn’s ‘never-give-up’ attitude is evident in every match, driving her to pursue every opportunity and challenge with unwavering intensity. This combination of natural talent and steadfast dedication not only makes her a formidable presence on the offensive front but also serves as an inspiration to her teammates. Zylynn’s contributions are crucial to our team’s dynamics, showcasing the power of perseverance and hard work in achieving success.”
Woolsey said the Lady Yellowjackets will be fielding a young team and anticipates several newcomers will make important contributions this season.
Those contributions will be important as Lebanon will need to replace leadership and key pieces from each area of the pitch this season.
Jayden Piercy, forward – Earned all-conference first-team honors. “Jayden left an indelible mark on our team with her exceptional speed and control,” Woolsey said. “Her ability to maintain possession under pressure and navigate through tight defenses was unparalleled. Jayden’s prowess on the field was not just about her athletic ability; it was her soccer IQ that set her apart, allowing her to find spaces that others couldn’t. As our leading scorer last season, her contributions were pivotal to our successes. Her knack for finding the back of the net in critical moments showcased not just her skill but her temperament, making her an invaluable asset to the team.”
Sydney Wilson, goalkeeper – “Sydney was a figure of passion and unwavering commitment on and off the field. Her high expectations for both herself and the team were a testament to her dedication to excellence. Sydney’s leadership was evident through the standards she set, pushing everyone to elevate their game. Sydney’s passion for the game and her desire to succeed were infectious, making her a pivotal figure in fostering a culture of ambition and determination within the squad. Her legacy is one of inspiration, reminding us of the power of setting high goals and passionately pursuing them.”
Chloe Shearer, defender – Named all-conference honorable mention. “Chloe was a cornerstone of our defense as a three-year starting varsity center back. Her wealth of experience and the positive, caring attitude she brought to the team were instrumental to her success on the field. Chloe’s ability to read the game and her tactical awareness made her a formidable presence in our defense, often outmaneuvering opponents and making crucial interventions. Beyond her technical skills, it was Chloe’s leadership and nurturing approach that truly set her apart. She fostered a supportive and cohesive environment among her teammates, enhancing the team’s overall performance and morale. Chloe’s contribution to our team was invaluable, not just in the way she played but in the spirit and dedication she embodied, making her a beloved and respected figure in our team’s history.”
Jaidyn Collins, midfielder – All-conference second team. “Jaidyn played an instrumental role in our team’s offensive dynamics. As the second-leading scorer, her knack for creating attacking opportunities was a key component of our strategy and her absence will undoubtedly be felt this season. Jaidyn’s vision on the field, coupled with her ability to deliver precise passes and set up goals, was exceptional. Beyond her technical skills, it was her leadership that truly made a difference. Jaidyn’s dedication and strength as a leader were evident in every game; she inspired her teammates through her commitment and resilience. Her contribution extended beyond just her play; she was a mentor and a motivator, pushing the team to higher standards.”
The Lady Yellowjackets open the regular season in their own Kickoff Tournament on March 15-16.
“With players who exemplify these strengths in various positions, from seasoned defenders like Destiny Stokes and Jenna Rosen to dynamic attackers like Addy Collins and Zylynn Dozier, we are well-prepared to execute our game plan effectively,” Woolsey said.
“Our collective passion and determination, underpinned by strategic gameplay and a supportive team environment, set the stage for a promising and successful season.”
