Kristyn Cook, the head Cumberland County Middle School girls soccer coach, may be more excited about the upcoming season than any of her players are. The Lady Jets opened the season Aug. 4 at Smith County in Carthage.
Cook sees a lot of potential in her team, though she understands coaches never know until the matches begin. However, because of the way her girls have been working, and the desire to get better she sees from her players, this may be the year CCMS makes an impact.
“We finished fifth in our district last season,” Cook said. “This season, we have set our goal to establish ourselves as one of the top teams in our district. The girls have been working hard this summer and we plan to keep that momentum going into the first week of competition.”
CCMS will be at home Aug. 7 when the Lady Jets host Jackson County. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m.
“One of our strengths this year will be in the goal,” Cook said. “Kyndall Dennis brings a commanding presence in goal with quick hands, excellent agility, and the composure to stay disciplined on her line.
“A strong shot-stopper with a coachable mindset, she is always looking to improve every aspect of her game. Her work ethic in the off season and her potential as a rising top keeper in middle Tennessee make her exciting to watch season after season.”
Seventh-graders Emmy Hayes and Riley McGuire, along with eighth-grader Staci Parker, have been showing a lot of promise.
“Emmy’s ability to read the field and lead the attack makes her one of the most valuable players on the field. Emmy is a technical player that isn’t afraid to take on players and beat them on the dribble,” Cook said.
“Emmy sets the stage for scoring opportunities. Her work ethic in the off season is outstanding and she is known to bring players together and keep them excited about the sport.
“Riley McGuire’s speed and ‘All grit no quit’ philosophy keep our team going when we have nothing left. Riley has been working really hard to step up her technical game in the off season. Staci takes command of her defensive line and shows exceptional leadership on and off the field. She is aggressive and intimidating attacking the play instead of waiting for it, and pushes defensive limits by holding her line at midfield on the attack. This is her third season and she is the only player to play all three middle school years.”
Speed, versatility and power are just three of the words that come to mind for some of Cumberland County’s other players expected to contribute this season.
“Myla Burris has the ability to adapt to any position and that makes her a valuable player,” Cook said.
“Her ‘I can’ attitude never seems to waiver despite whatever challenge or skilled opponent is facing her.
“Addie Phillips is our left attacking midfielder. She has a powerful kick and the ability to read the field, which makes her fierce on the attack. She can play most positions on the field.”
Cook also said two newcomers, despite having talented players in front of them on the roster, are catching her eye and fighting their way into possible starting positions.
“Izzy Hernandez and Addley Brown, both newcomers to the team, are doing well,” Cook said.
“Hernandez is a striker and brings speed and intensity to the play. She is a rising star to watch.
“Addley is a right back and brings defensive strength to our defensive line with the ability to take defenders on the dribble and move the ball up the field. She is also a rising star to watch.”