High school soccer: Kennett grows, celebrates its triumphs

Last summer when it was announced Kennett would bring back soccer into the fold, it was expected the Indians would endure “growing pains.”

That’s exactly what happened along the way.

However, there were a couple of special memories at the forefront, including a 2-1 victory over St. Paul Lutheran in Farmington on Aug. 31.

Kennett sophomore soccer player Adrian Martinez played multiple positions this past season, including center back and midfielder. (Photo by Eric Viccaro, staff)

There also was the 3-all tie versus Perryville on Sept. 28. Even though the deadlock was versus the Perryville’s JV, it’s worth noting Kennett was playing a school with a strong winning pedigree (including a state runner-up finish in 2021).

Those two accomplishments boosted team morale and gave fans an inkling of success for future seasons..

Kennett celebrated those successes with a season-ending banquet at the Grecian Steak House on Sunday evening.

Zeser Martinez vies for possession of the ball during a match versus Saxony Lutheran from Tuesday, Oct. 24, at Indian Park in Kennett. (Photo by Eric Viccaro, staff)

Awards were presented for most productive defending midfielder, most improved shot, most improved player and other light-hearted awards for top slide tackle and smallest shin guards.

“Coaching the team this season has been an incredible journey,” said Jeremy Westerfield, a former player during Kennett’s first run with soccer during the 2000s.

“The players showed great dedication and resilience,” Westerfield continued, “making it a rewarding experience for both the staff and athletes.”

Kennett's Jaxon Patterson dribbles the ball during a soccer match versus Saxony Lutheran from Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023, at Indian Park. (Photo by Eric Viccaro, staff)

Westerfield said the team’s camaraderie will carry over into future seasons.

Senior Lucas Randle was honored before the team’s final match versus Saxony Lutheran on Tuesday, Oct. 24.

Randle was a selfless player, willing to move back and forth between center attacking midfielder and striker.

Meagan Spielman was noted for her ability to play defense this season, with enough versatility to play both center back and right fullback.

Sophomore Adrian Martinez also played multiple positions within the Indians’ formation, both as a center back and center defending midfielder.

Juniors Tanner Hansen and Brayden Trainer served as a goalkeeper platoon. It’s worth noting that Hansen also was a member of the cross country team.

Many players grew comfortable in their roles: Brayden Garza as a left forward, Zeser Martinez, Lorenzo Juarez and Jaden Ramirez as midfielders.

There were two left wings in Jaxon Patterson and William “Jayce” Palmer. Tobias Ray became entrenched as the Indians’ right wing.

Other players made contributions as well: Brandon Mullen (midfielder), Hayden Watson (midfielder/striker), Evan Todd (midfielder/striker) and Trey Heeb (defender). Lilly Puga, Hayley Bagwell and Kamilah Martinez all played on defense.

Freshman Austin Wright served as a “field rover.” Wright was in what Westerfield called the “free” position.

“This position allowed him to play the entire field and keep pressure on the opposing team’s offense,” the coach commented, “and hopefully break down any offensive push.”

Westerfield said the end product from the 2023 campaign won’t necessarily be how the alignment looks next season.

“I am looking for some of these kids to move into various ‘new’ roles on the pitch as we look toward next season,” Westerfield said. “Some want to take a move active, attacking role while others have expressed a desire to move into more defensive positions.”

The Indians finished with a record of 1-11-1.

This year’s schedule wasn’t easy, playing the likes of Class 4 Jackson, Class 3 Farmington (whose varsity won a district title), Class 3 Cape Notre Dame Regional (district runner-up), Class 3 Cape Central, solid Illinois program Anna-Jonesboro and private school Westwood Baptist from Poplar Bluff.

“We are currently evaluating potential changes to enhance the team’s competitiveness,” Westerfield said. “Discussions are underway to ensure a balanced and challenging schedule for the upcoming season.”

Kennett will play other school’s junior varsity programs again in 2024, and begin varsity competition the year after that.