Freshman Emily Baker leading Redhawks in goals scored

Redhawks freshman forward and midfielder Emily Baker has wasted little time contributing to the SEMO offense. Baker has scored a team-leading three goals in five games, all of which she has started. The most recent goal scored came against Murray State University in the game on Sept. 10.

SEMO head coach Heather Nelson said that Baker’s offense has been impressive since she showed up and has also improved her defensive game.

“Emily is a really creative attacking player for us. She's got a calmness around the goal and she has a really good burst of speed,” Nelson said. “She's been making some huge growth in her game in a more complete way, meaning that she's starting to help win balls back as well as attacking.”

Good offense is nothing new for the Alton (IL) High School graduate, during her time with the Redbirds Baker collected many accolades. As a junior and senior Baker garnered All-Conference and All-Sectional Honors as well as being named the Telegraph Girls’ Soccer Player of the Year as a junior.

Baker said it is a good feeling to lead the team in goals but puts most of the credit onto the people around her.

“I feel like it’s been an accomplishment to lead the team in goals but I know it wouldn’t be possible without the ten other people on the field,” Baker said. “It’s not just me it’s basically anyone who has helped me to this point.”

As is the goal for every competitive athlete Baker said she just wants to do anything she can to help the team win an Ohio Valley Conference championship.

“It feels good to come out and be able to show the older girls what I can do,” Baker said. “I want to get a ring and help the seniors get another ring as well.”

Baker and the Redhawks begin OVC play on Thursday at 3 p.m. against Western Illinois University in Macomb before returning to Houck Stadium on Sunday at 1 p.m. to continue the OVC slate with Eastern Illinois University.