Local Sports Journal
Second-year coach Dan Nichols is looking for his Whitehall Viking to climb the league standings after finishing fifth a year ago.
The Vikings did lose four seniors, but return two seniors and a solid group of juniors.
“We have very motivated girls and we improved quickly last season,” Nichols said. “The year before I came to Whitehall, the varsity scored four goals the entire season. They scored 56 goals last year. So, the underclassmen will step up and continue this push to succeed.”
Anchoring the defense is Jessica Friend, who brings soccer smarts and her aggressive style of play to the Vikings’ back line. Morgan Kellis is a senior midfielder will skills and the ability to be a leader. Leading scorer Sarah Schmiedeknecht is a junior and she will be expected to lead the way in the offensive zone once again. Senior Jonna Johnson is another solid defender.
Three players who have caught the eye of the coach in the early going are midfielder Samantha Huebler, midfielder Morgen Myers and striker Kelsey Gensler.
“They have all been committed in the off season and should contribute in a big way for the team,” Nichols said. “I couldn’t ask for a better group of girls. They are motivated, coachable, and confident. We expect to continue our success in the conference.”
