Beech Tree News Network

Butler County High School girls' soccer will be starting with a young team in 2024, after graduating 9 seniors last season, most of whom were starters. Some of the key returning players include Loree Davidson, Kenzie Johnson, Bailey Moore and Jessica Alonzo. 

The team has four incoming freshmen, which is more than the program has had in the past. 

"This shows me that soccer at the high school level is growing in popularity in Butler County and is gaining the attention of future players," said Emily McAfee, head girls' soccer questions. "Though we have an encouraging number of freshmen we are still hoping to recruit a few more young players to help give our roster some depth this season."

Last season, junior Loree Davidson made the list of top goal scorers in the state at 45/50 midseason. 

"We have been continuing to work with Loree to improve her shots and ball control and she continues to improve. She will most definitely be a game changer in the 2024 season," said McAfee. 

Kenzie Johnson (junior) and Jessica Alonzo (senior) were strong defensive players for the Lady Bears last season and will be a crucial part of their success defensively this year. 

"We know that defense will be what wins us games, and this year with a less experienced team this will most definitely be the case," said McAfee.  "These girls will be stepping up as leaders this season and were excited to see where they can lead the team."

Bailey Moore (senior) a midfielder played her first season for the Lady Bears last year as a junior and was the asset for the team. Bailey brought speed, agility and has the ability to carry the ball upfield. 

"Bailey has the potential to be both a top goal scorer for the team this year and a key part of dominating the midfield to maintain possession," said McAfee.  

"Being such a young team, we are encouraging our returning players to step up to the plate and lead the younger players on and off the field," said McAfee.  "Many people would refer to this as a "building year" but I am hesitant to do so because of the potential seen in our youngest players. We have some really talented players this season, but it is going to take us time to figure out how we play as a team." 

McAfee continued, "We have a number of girls that have the potential to be great goal scorers as well as some talented players to support our team defensively. This season will take a lot of hard work from these girls, but if we can learn to play as a unit success will come. There is so much potential in this 2024 team and it makes me excited to be able to coach these girls another year and watch their growth as a team and individuals."