By Chris Parker
Greenwood girls soccer has a new head coach in Andres Cecenas taking over this season. He previous was an assistant at Ozark.
He takes over a team coming off a seven-win season.
Cecenas is confident his team will be able to adapt to his style and system quickly.
“The strengths of this team will be their ability to learn fast and their determination to make the most of each opportunity they get in practice and games,” Cecenas said. “We don’t have that many upperclassmen so this is really important for us to develop a strong team fast.”
Elyse Metzelthin (sophomore) will be a key player at forward.
“She (Metzelthin) will be the one that leads the Greenwood offense this season,” Cecenas said. “Elyze has a really talented left foot and her ability to make space to pass or find the shot is impressive.”
Eva Heidemann (junior) and Reese Weter (freshman) will be a big part of the midfield.
“Eva has the experience and will be our ball distributor in the middle and will really be the one in charge of keeping the team together,” Cecenas said. “Reese is a freshman who will be our box-to-box midfielder. She will have a lot of say on how our attack develops from our defensive half. Reese has a great work ethic which translates well to that role we want her to be in.”
Senior Cammie Parker will be the leader of the backline at defender.
Cecenas also identified Samara Lee (senior) and Anna McQueary (junior) as key players.
“Samara Lee and Anna McQueary will be instrumental in bringing experience to our otherwise young team,” Cecenas said. “They will look to make a big impact this year. They both have good defensive and offensive qualities that will help our team succeed this year.”
Greenwood opens the season Mar. 23 with the Greenwood Girls Soccer Classic.
“I want a team that has possession and is not scared to have build up play from the goalie. A team that prioritizes good defense and understands what it takes to win a game. Set pieces and corners will be a big part of our offense this year, things that are undervalued in my opinion,” Cecenas said. “Overall expectations are to have a successful season. We are going to work to be competitive in any game we play with an eye for being successful in the postseason where it matters. This group of girls are hardworking and eager to learn. I have been told, so I am definitely looking forward to that.”
