St. Clairsville Girls’ Soccer: A Journey of Resilience and Talent
A Championship Moment
In a thrilling display of determination and skill, the St. Clairsville girls’ soccer team recently celebrated a significant achievement by clinching the Ohio Division IV Eastern District championship trophy. This victory came after a nail-biting double overtime match against Beaver Local at Harding Stadium in Steubenville. The Red Devils, now gearing up for their regional semifinal against West Muskingum, are riding high on the momentum of their recent success.
A Team Transformed
The current St. Clairsville squad is a stark contrast to the senior-heavy team that reached the regional semifinals in 2020. This year’s roster features only two seniors and four juniors, with a youthful core of eight sophomores and two freshmen. Despite being less experienced and not initially expected to advance this far in the tournament, the team has proven that talent and teamwork can defy expectations.
Head coach Wes Stoner reflects on the evolution of the team, noting, “The skill level between the two teams is very similar. These girls have been playing longer, not with us, obviously, but with their respective club teams.” This commitment to year-round play has been instrumental in their development, with several players honing their skills outside of the high school season.
Looking Ahead
As the Red Devils prepare for their match against West Muskingum, they carry the confidence of a top-seeded team with a record of 13-5-1. Stoner acknowledges the potential for future growth, stating, “This may be one year ahead of schedule because the girls that are juniors will be missed after next season.” With only one senior, Isabella Yeager, graduating, the team is poised to return a significant number of letterwinners next year, setting the stage for continued success.
Navigating the Competition
One of the factors contributing to St. Clairsville’s success is their recent drop from Division II to Division IV due to OHSAA realignment. This shift has leveled the playing field for smaller schools, allowing the Red Devils to compete more effectively while still facing a challenging schedule. Stoner emphasizes the importance of maintaining a rigorous lineup, citing a recent 0-0 draw against John Glenn, a team currently competing in the Division II regionals.
Tournament Triumphs
The Red Devils’ journey through the tournament has been marked by impressive performances. After receiving a bye in the first round, they dominated East Liverpool with a 4-0 victory in the semifinals. The district title match against Beaver Local was a test of resilience, as the team rallied from a 1-0 deficit to secure a 2-1 win in double overtime. Freshman Elizabeth Morgan emerged as a standout player, scoring both goals in the finals, showcasing her talent and poise under pressure.
Key Players to Watch
St. Clairsville boasts a roster filled with scoring threats. Sophomore Ashlynn Lednik leads the team with 25 goals and 12 assists, while Emma Gasber contributes significantly with 20 goals and five assists. Morgan, with her 22 goals and seven assists, has quickly made a name for herself as a formidable force on the field. Stoner praises Lednik’s talent, stating, “Ashlynn might be the most talented girl I’ve ever coached,” highlighting her year-round commitment to the sport.
Defensive Strength
A strong defense has been a hallmark of the Red Devils’ success, anchored by sophomore goalkeeper Kiya Kyer. With a school-record 10 shutouts, Kyer has proven to be a reliable last line of defense. Stoner notes her impressive athleticism and development, stating, “She’s still developing. This is only her second year of playing (soccer).” Kyer’s ability to make crucial saves has been vital to the team’s performance, as evidenced by her 133 saves and only 24 goals allowed in 19 games.
A Bright Future
With a total of 80 goals scored and 72 assists registered this season, the St. Clairsville girls’ soccer team is not just a contender; they are a testament to the power of teamwork, resilience, and talent. As they prepare for their upcoming match against West Muskingum, the Red Devils are not only focused on the present but are also building a foundation for future success. The blend of experienced players and emerging talent suggests that St. Clairsville soccer is on the rise, promising an exciting future for the program.