By Dana Harding
The Central Lady Bulldogs enjoyed a successful 2016 campaign, finishing 13-7 before falling in the district opener to Lebanon.
Head coach Chris Welch returns a host of key players looking to build on that success and compete for the program’s third district title.
“2016 was a good year for us,” Welch said. “We ended 13-7 with a core group of girls who had experienced success in previous season, and brought their skill to our new players.”
The Lady Bulldogs return a roster full of vital contributors from last season.
Leading the way is Ireland Hawkins. The senior midfielder scored six goals and six assists in 2016, finishing the year as a 1st team All-District selection and All-Region nominee.
“Ireland is a strong leader in the center of the field,” Welch said. “She brings experience and a quiet presence to the field.”
Junior Jaiden Ellerbee returns to anchor the Central defense. The two-time, All-District defensive player of the year and All-Region selection scored four goals last season and is Central’s X-factor heading into the season.
“Jaiden is the remaining defender of the line from last season,” Welch said. “She brings her club experience and toughness to lead not only her back line, but her entire team. She is physically tough and amazingly smart in this game. Our opponents know her well”
Senior midfielder Renon Kirkpatrick brings a bevy of speed to Welch’s lineup. Kirkpatrick netted nine goals and four assists in 2016.
“Renon brings experience and smart play off the ball to the outside midfield line,” Welch said. “She will be key in speed on the outside line to deliver the ball to our forwards this season.”
Another midfielder, Dani Barstead, brings versatility and hard-nosed play to the Lady Bulldogs. Barstead scored seven goals last season.
“[Dani] is just an all-around tough kid,” Welch said. “She brings speed and skill to the other side of the midfield line and is willing to play just about anywhere we ask her.”
Rounding out the group is forward Ahriana Eyerman, who finished the 2016 season with 17 goals and four assists.
“We are looking for Ahri to be a key returning player for us this season,” Welch said. “She has worked hard in club over the last year, improving her skill set and shooting.”
While Central’s lineup will benefit from its large group of returning players, the newcomers are poised to make an immediate impact on the roster.
Sophomore Dasia Pence joins a trio of freshmen in Kourtney Tucker, Maggie Courtney and Grace Chalfant.
Courtney, in particular, will see early opportunities, as she takes over in the goalkeeper position for graduated Hannah Frey.
“[Maggie] has some big shoes to fill after an outstanding 2016 season by Frey,” Welch said. “She’s ready to take on the challenge with her skill and experience in the cage.”
Central begins 2017 play in a new district, as well.
The Class 4, District 10 lineup looks to be one of the most challenging, featuring area heavyweights Kickapoo, Ozark and Lebanon.
“Our strength in games comes from how we develop together during practices each day,” Welch said. “As a family, each girl pushes the other every day to improve skill, communication and leadership in every aspect of training, and they take winning and losing very seriously.”
Central opens jamboree play at Parkview March 16 with Parkview, and West Plains. The Lady Bulldogs kick off the season March 21 at home against Parkview.
