Local Sports Journal

Western Michigan Christian’s girls soccer team has plenty of talent for the upcoming season.

However, Coach David Hulings is looking for some leaders to step up and fill a void left from last year’s senior class.

“This is a great group of players who love each other and can play soccer,” Hulings said. “But, they will have to find a way to come together under new leadership.”

One leader is senior Mykayla Denison, a team captain and a solid player in the middle of the field. Her vision and passing will be a definite asset to the Warriors.

Senior transfer Alyssa Benedict also will add size and maturity to the Warriors’ attack. Fellow seniors Kati South and Sarah Hughes will add leadership and experience.

The Warriors also return one of the area’s top players in junior Alexys Riksen. Her versatility will come in handy as she can play any position on the field.

“Last year, we allowed her to be double team and her maturity though that will be an added bonus,” Hulings said. “However, we have some great support for Alexys this year.”

That comes with Benedict, along with sophomore Jessica Kinnucan and freshman Lauren Myers.

Defensively, the Warriors will be led by Alyssa Wright and Megan Teeter, who returns after missing last season with an injury. Mikayla Erickson also is a solid contributor along the back line with her speed as well as goalkeeper Lindsey Johnson, who started in goal the last two years.

“We aren’t sure what we will look like as we haven’t been outside since the beginning of the season,” Hulings said. “We have had to cancel three games. So, it will be a quick and packed season.”