PENDLETON — The Pendleton Heights girls soccer program has been building a tradition in recent years. Despite the graduation of three key players, head coach Mark Davy said he’s optimistic there’s plenty on the pitch to move the team forward.
Second-leading scorer Alicia Schrink and top defender Kirby Barger are headed to IU-East to play soccer, and goaltender Sam Hammel will play basketball at Huntington University.
But, coming off a 12-5 season, Davy said he sees enough talent and athleticism on this year’s squad to compete at a high level.
“You look at last year’s team and the years before that, and you kind of see where we’re headed,” he said. “Last year was a team that I thought we could be pretty good, and we were. We’re not just showing up for sectionals now; we’re competing to win. We’re not overwhelmed like we’ve been in the past.”
Two of the top-three scorers are back this year, including junior Taylor Fort. After a 13-goal, 11-assist sophomore season, Davy said Fort is the entire package as a player.
“Taylor brings everything to the team,” he said. “She can do it all. She’s a great finisher, a great assister; she’s just all-around so talented. To have that player on the team, it brings everyone else’s level up.”
Sophomore Lexi Hill scored nine goals a year ago, and Davy said he sees a great deal of potential in one of his younger stars.
“Last year, she played more of a defensive midfielder,” he said. “We’re looking to get her more on the attack this year; she scored nine goals last year out of a defensive majority position. If we get her more on the attack, we’re looking to maybe double that this year.”
Senior Shayla Meinders will take over in goal this season for the Arabians. Despite being new to the position on a full-time basis, Davy said he has confidence Meinders can get the job done.
“A lot of times with a new keeper you’re worried,” Davy said. “I’ve seen her for three years now, so I wasn’t worried at all with her back there. She comes out and is active, and that’s what you want from a goalie.”
In addition to Meinders, three other seniors will start and help lead this year’s team, including Kate Cowger, Deisdy Rodriguez and Natalie Taylor. Each brings different strengths to the club.
“Kate’s play does her talking,” Davy said. “She’s probably one of our hardest-working players. Deisdy is one of our top players by the way she plays and the way she works. Natalie will be starting for the second year at that outside back. She’s a senior captain; throughout the summer she’s been that voice, getting everyone where they need to be.”
Athletic juniors Leonie Wilson, Claire Fendel and Helena Talbot are expected to contribute, and Davy said he’s excited about freshmen Macy Browning, Riley Schrink and Sara Dix.
The Arabians finished tied for second in a deep and talented Hoosier Heritage Conference, won by Mt. Vernon. Even with New Palestine and sectional champion Greenfield-Central in the mix, Pendleton Heights players have set a conference championship as their top priority.
“That’s always been our goal,” Davy said. “Last year, falling short of it, makes it our biggest goal. Every girl on the team would say that, and I think being on the same page will help us this year.”
The Arabians will kick off their season Saturday, Aug. 19, at home with an 11:30 a.m. match against University High School.