Central Girls Soccer Keeping Momentum Going

Coach Name: Randy Trexler

Number of years as head coach: 2

League: Laurel Highlands Athletic Conference

Last year’s record: League: 18-0 (Overall: 20-2-0)

Returning starters: SENIORS – Lacey Ripka (GK/F); JUNIORS – Paiton Campbell (MF), Lakkyn Dibert (F), Danielle Heltzel (D), Kira Trexler (MF), Rachel Theys (D); SOPHOMORES – Carli Hart (F), Leya Hazenstab (MF), Bethany Kensinger (MF)

Other returnees: JUNIORS - Avery Kasun; SOPHOMORES – Madeline Benton, Vada Thompson

Newcomers: FRESHMEN – Addison Long, Brittany Bartley, Cameron Bailey, Ellie McIntier, Julia Bowser, Lilly Harbaugh, Mya Long, Sophia Keith

Strengths: A balanced team of experienced starters who can work together and protect the ball until quality scoring opportunities are presented. Strong technical skills and good soccer IQ.

Concerns: Staying healthy and playing a tougher schedule in the new Laurel Highlands conference.

Overall outlook: The Lady Dragons finished as LHAC champions the past two seasons and make it to the District VI finals and PIAA State Playoff. Many of the returning starters were responsible for the team’s impressive 121 goals, 296 average passes per game and a possession rate of 65 percent last season. Junior Kira Trexler, last year’s LHAC MVP and Altoona Mirror All-Star selection, is set to continue producing for the team as she team ranked number 1 or number 2 in every offensive category prior season. Senior Lacey Ripka looks strong as she returns from season-ending knee injury last year. Campbell, Heltzel and Theys led the defensive elements who contributed to setting ‘Goals Against’ school record (14) over the past 2 seasons. There are plenty of weapons with Dibert, Hart, Hazenstab, Kensinger who bring year-round commitment and strong levels of youth soccer experience. Depth off the bench is promising with some Junior Varsity players who are expected to see playing time.

Team goals: Experience a positive environment that will influence the student’s enthusiasm for soccer and fitness for years to come. Improve technical, tactical, physical, and social skills. Focus on team first over individual success. Continue the Lady Dragons winning tradition in District VI league and tournament competition. Win the Laurel Highlands conference.

Assistant coach: Hannah Moore