Much like National Football League interior linemen, soccer defenders often go unrecognized … unless they make a mistake the opposition exploits, warranting a stern shout from the bosses on the sideline.
During the 2023 girls’ soccer season, however, Ignacio head coach Alisha Gullion never really hollered disapprovingly at the Lady Bobcats’ back line. Knowing that, as was often the case, her defenders would be pressured far more than any other set in the 2A Intermountain-South, she was looking more for growth and progression.
And in senior-to-be Willow Schulz, who always seemed to be near the ball when enemies approached, she found it.
“She’s so incredibly fast; I don’t think a lot of people expect that speed – and the aggression that comes out of her – because she’s so small,” said Gullion, commending the Second Team All-League selection. “Willow, she’s just an amazing defender; I definitely thought she earned that position.”
Joining Schulz as a Second Team honoree – along with Crested Butte Community School seniors Ellie O’Neal and Mara Pennie, Telluride sophomore Tjarn Lyons and freshman Kimberly Magana, plus Ridgway senior Claire Lindley and freshman Addy Gardiner – was senior Trinity Crane.
“She worked really, really hard the last two seasons – especially this season,” Gullion said. “Definitely a go-to player.”
Senior Trinity Strohl was the only player for Ignacio (0-15 overall, 0-6 league) and the only goalkeeper named First Team All-League, though Pennie was voted Goalie-of-the-Year after helping CBCS (10-7, 5-1) reach the 16-team State Tournament’s quarterfinal phase.
“I’m super proud,” said Gullion. “Trinity had an amazing season back in goal; she learned a lot.”
“I think they did a great job,” she continued, speaking of her All-Leaguers as a whole. “I definitely know that the younger players looked up to them a lot; they were strong leaders. I think their hard work is what really inspired the rest of their teammates.”
Crested Butte junior midfielder Leigh Harpel was chosen Player-of-the-Year, and was a First Team All-League pick along with senior forward India Nornes and freshman forward Molly Grace Miller.
Named First Team from RHS (7-6-1, 4-2) were seniors Maizy Gordon and Courtney Southall, plus freshman Sophia Scranton. Senior midfield/defender Summer Johnson and senior defender Morgan Perpar were selected from THS (7-8, 3-3).
CBCS’ Heather Culley was named Coach-of-the-Year.