The girls soccer team is preparing for the new season with a focus on improving last year’s 2-8 league record (2-12 overall), which placed them fifth in the Oregon West Conference.
The 2023 season started with challenges, including several starters out due to injury and a lack of players to fill the roster. However, by the end of the season, the team’s numbers increased, and players returned to full health.
This year, the team has 26 players, allowing for both varsity and junior varsity squads; the first time since 2019 that a JV team has been formed. With greater depth, the coaching staff is implementing new formations and strategies to improve on last year’s finish.
Returning varsity starters include seniors Peyton Markell, Kirsten Sautel, Beatrice Reeves, Zoë Garrett, and Amelia Sullens, along with junior Anabelle Morris and sophomore goalkeeper Lyndie Birkett. Additional returning players are Emerson Martineau, Samantha Pineda-Villa, Khloe Woods, and Miu Simmons.
New to varsity are freshmen Natasha Marin, Khloe Sautel, Reece Linder, Olivia Sullens, and Ziarra Duncan, who will compete for playing time.
Captains Peyton Markell, Zoë Garrett, and Amelia Sullens will lead the team this year. Head coach Romero Santana returns for the varsity team, with Keith Sautel as assistant coach. Kelsey Walker will coach the JV team.
With a larger roster, a mix of returning players, and new talent, the team looks to improve in the upcoming season. Their first game at home versus Siuslaw (1-0) Sept. 3 ended in favor of Siuslaw, ending 2-5. Head coach Ramiro Santana did not respond to our inquiries for a statement.
The team will be back playing at home versus Junction City (0-2) at 6 p.m. on Sept 10.
