By Chris Parker
McDonald County soccer improved its win total for a third consecutive season in 2023 going from four wins in 2021 to five wins in 2022 to eight wins last season.
Six returning starters, 13 returning lettermen and a strong off-season of improvement has the Mustangs looking for even more this season.
“These guys have worked really hard during the pre-season to correct and improve on their game both individually and as a team,” McDonald County head coach Nathan Haikey said. “We took some big strides forward last season as a program and the team definitely wants to continue that.”
Miguel Mora (junior), Reyes Mendoza (sophomore), Michael Mendez (junior) and Giovanni Gonzalez (senior) will be the team’s forwards. Gonzalez was named second-team all-conference last season on the strength of his six goals and three assists. Mora was just behind him with five goals and Mendoza had four.
Look for Christian Ramirez (senior), Richard Gasca (senior), Marcos Bail (sophomore), and Esvin Lopez (sophomore) in the midfield.
The defense will feature Steven Paxtor (senior), Yeison Lopez (senior), Luis De La Cruz (junior), and Marco Sanchez (junior).
Senior Rhett Keaton will switch from winger to goalkeeper this season.
“Rhett has shown a lot of ability both physically and mentally to make that change,” Haikey said. “Rhett definitely has all the tools to excel in goal.”
Speed will be key to McDonald County’s success this season.
“As a team, we have a lot of speed all over the pitch. Coupled with the bit of success last season, confidence is pretty high going into the season,” Haikey said. “We are never going to be the biggest or most physical team on the field, but we will always try to take the game to the opposition at a fast and entertaining pace.”
McDonald County will jamboree at home on Aug. 27 before opening the regular season on Sept. 3 at home against Marshfield.
“As always, we want to challenge for a conference title as well as advancing in the district tournament,” Haikey said.
