By Chris Parker
Waynesville soccer has seven returning starters and 10 total lettermen from last season’s three-win team returning.
“We should bring out a fairly balanced squad this season as we look to grow from last year and be competitive in our new conference,” Waynesville head coach Josh Mize said. “Our midfield has the most returning experience, so we hope that allows us to focus on addressing weaker areas.”
Senior forward Sofia Mejia will be the key player up top.
Seniors Kayleigh Saalman and Mariah Palmer along with juniors Myah Harris, Regan Grosvenor and Riley Grosvenor return in the midfield.
Seniors Ivy Smith and Kamden Raines are defenders.
Jordan Hanf will be playing goalkeeper in her senior season after taking over last season due to an injury.
“Jordan Hanf was a surprise replacement at keeper last season for an injured Breona Hurd,” Mize said. “She has a natural aggressive nature that despite a lack of training helped her make quick adjustments and be a pretty solid keeper.”
Freshmen will also have key spots on varsity this season.
“We will be asking a lot out of some key freshmen pieces this season,” Mize said. “We are hoping this helps with our opportunities on goal as it was difficult for us to find chances to score last season. We graduated some seasoned veterans on the back line so building up our defense will be key.”
Mize will look to his seniors to help bring the young players along.
“We expect leadership to come from our upperclassmen collectively,” Mize said. “Their experience will help guide our younger players to adjust to playing up.”
Waynesville opens the season on Mar. 24 at home against Camdenton.
“Our motto for this season is “Greater than one.”,” Mize said. “We are working on building a strong culture that embraces everyone on the team.”
