Michael Parker may be having flashbacks to 2017.
The University Heights Academy Lady Blazer girls’ soccer coach has another talented freshman class to begin the season and once again, has his squad in the hunt for a region title.
That 2017 class – which included Grace Pape, Kate Cansler, Molly Bennett, Sarah Covington, and Emily Hancock – won 48 games, four district titles, and advanced to the region championship game twice.
The 2023 squad features five freshmen and five sophomores which gives Parker three seasons to mold them to meet and exceed the accomplishments of the Class of 2020.
“There are some similarities but it’s a bit different too,” said Parker. This group has a lot of talent and they are playing better soccer at this point as freshmen.”
Freshman Kendall Hancock will be slated up front and join Audrey Grice and Audrey Perry, who combined to score 27 of UHA’s 51 goals last season.
Alyssa Grice, Ajae Oats, and Skyler Cantrell will roam the midfield. Cantrell scored seven goals and assisted on eight others last season, while Grice scored twice.
“If we can mesh the midfield and speed up front and create some chances, I think we’ll have a chance moving forward in a lot of games,” said Parker.
Kate Adams, Kate Cayce, and Cecilia Langhi will move between the back and midfield with Ava Colburn and Michelle Salas anchoring the back. Salas had a strong summer and proved the ability to mark the other team’s offensive threat with repeated success.
Colbun is a team captain and three-year starter.
While Parker doesn’t have the numbers he has enjoyed in the past, he has some experience returning that can push the starters throughout the season. They include Edie Adams, Lucy Wilkins, and several freshmen.
“Everyone is going to have to push the starters and keep them honest. The seniors are used to playing with the freshmen and sophomores and will pass on some leadership,” Parker said.
The Lady Blazers will look to again be players in the region that includes the Trigg County squad that ousted them from the region tournament. The Lady Wildcats lost three seniors from that team. The teams will not meet in the regular season.
Defending region champion Henderson County returns its top three scorers from last year while Madisonville must replace two of its top four scorers. UHA hosts Henderson County on Sept. 14 and will play at Madisonville on Sept. 26.
UHA Coach Michael Parker breaks down the preseason in this YSE interview.
