Fresh Blood, Bright Future: Sikeston soccer prepares for breakout season

SIKESTON — A tsunami of young and returning talent has hit the Sikeston boys’ soccer program.

Evolving the Bulldog “pups to predators’ and propelling them toward a season that could mark a turning point for the program.

“This team is unique due to the number of experienced and hard-working freshmen we have,” said Sikeston coach Gabe Dement. “We expect them to inject competition into our practices that will help the entire team improve.”

Sikeston Jeremiah Wade competes during practice on Wednesday, August 23, 2023. (Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat)

In addition to the influx of talented freshmen, the Bulldogs benefit from the experience and skill of several key senior players. Among them is Kaleb Hubbard, who recorded three goals and one assist last season, as well as the seasoned leadership of Rush Ault, Levi Douglass, Carter Grimes and Conner Wicker.

These senior contributors, alongside junior Jeremiah Wade (three goals and six assists last season), form a core group of experienced players expected to make a substantial impact on the team’s performance this season.

“[Hubbard] is very strong on the ball and has a great shot,” Dement said. “We expect big things from seniors Rush Ault, Levi Douglass, and Conner Wicker, while [Wade] has good speed and a strong left-footed cross and shot. We also hope to see some offensive production from senior Christian Parker.”

Sikeston's Jeremiah Wade attacks against Conner Wicker during practice on Wednesday, August 23, 2023. (Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat)

The team also welcomes the arrival of some talented junior newcomers in Chris Artis and Tristan Wiggins. While it is their inaugural season at the high school level, both players have a wealth of experience from their time in the Sikeston program during junior high.

Brimming with speed and athleticism, Artis and Wiggins possess the potential to revolutionize the team’s dynamics on the field. Their presence heralds a wave of anticipation, as their prior experience and skill set make them assets and potential game-changers for the upcoming season.

“We feel they will make a very positive impact,” Dement said. “They add a great deal of speed and intelligence to our team. [Artis] will provide a strong defensive presence with his ability to pressure the ball. [Wiggins] is very strong and has great foot skill and vision.”

Sikeston's Tristan Wiggins scores during practice on Wednesday, August 23, 2023. (Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat)

The anticipation skyrockets with the addition of freshmen Jaden Johnson and Mauricio Bautista.

Johnson, an offensive dynamo, is set to become a standout player on the team, showcasing exceptional scoring ability. He scored a goal and dished out an assist against Class 4 Capital City during the St. Louis Summer Showcase this past summer.

“We expect his speed and foot skills to help our attack this season,” Dement said.

Sikeston coach Gabe Dement instructs his team during practice on Wednesday, August 23, 2023. (Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat)

On the other hand, Bautista’s defensive prowess positions him as a formidable force, possibly the team’s top defender.

“Although he’s only a freshman, he has played high-level club soccer as a center-back,” Dement said. “He did very well at the St. Louis Showcase. I could see Rush Ault being a motivational vocal leader while [Bautista] will help keep us organized.

“In addition to [Johnson] and [Bautasta], every freshman who has made it to summer training has shown a good work ethic and the desire to compete,” he continued. “Several have a very strong soccer background.”

With the graduation of six starters and nine total seniors, the team welcomes a completely new group of players who are still learning to gel and play together.

As a result, expectations should be tempered as the team embarks on a journey that will require time and patience rather than an immediate overnight turnaround.

“Our culture is based on a family atmosphere,” Dement said. “From coaches down to managers, we want everyone to feel welcome but also hold each other accountable to our team contract.”

With a season of growth and learning ahead, the Bulldogs are led by a coaching staff dedicated to continual improvement.

Dement, who brings 15 years of experience, acknowledged that there is always more to learn and values the contributions of his assistant coaches. Alongside Jared Boyd, the team also welcomes Wyatt Pratt as a new assistant. Dement expects Pratt to be a strong asset to the program as a ‘great young role model,’ who is mature and dedicated to Sikeston Athletics.

“I think having assistant coaches who are willing to make sure we work to improve is key,” Dement concluded. “I think the key to motivating and inspiring athletes is to genuinely get to know them and learn what motivates them to succeed. All kids are different and to have the best team you have to coach each player accordingly.”

Sikeston began its season at the Carbondale Invitational on Friday, August 25, losing 7-2 to Murphysboro and 5-1 to Carbondale.