The foundation is set for Lady Mules’ soccer team

The season didn’t end the way the Poplar Bluff Lady Mules’ soccer team wanted, but it laid the foundation for the next season.

The Lady Mules had a rough start at the beginning, but managed to pull it all together at the end to finish the season with a 12-8 record, recording 11 shutouts and going 7-2 in their final nine games.

Through all the ups and downs, head coach Rusty Crafton was pleased with the effort the Lady Mules showed to turn their rocky season around.

“I thought our season went really well for us despite all the odds,” Crafton said. “We had some hiccups at the beginning with a lot of injuries, which hurt us because most of those players were starters. Shortly after getting many of those young players back, our season gradually progressed, and we got better.”

The Lady Mules will lose three key seniors, with Olivia Carda, Sydney Kramer and Nevaeh Larkins making their exit. Carda played a major role in the Lady Mules’ offense, recording multiple goals and dishing out many assists. Meanwhile, Kramer stood strong for the defense on the back end, while Larkins swatted away any ball that entered her path as the goalkeeper.

Crafton said replacing them won’t be easy, but is optimistic about a few returners who can step up more for next year.

“All three girls have been key starters all four years for us, so it’s definitely going to be hard to let them go,” he said. “All good things must come to an end, (but) I think they've got a bright future ahead of them, and I can't wait to see what happens with them in the future as they continue to grow.”

As for those who are returning, Crafton said a few players have already taken claim to some key positions for the squad. The Lady Mules will have a new group of seniors to rely on as Cori Duncan, Sophronia Starnes and Savannah Hanner, who plays outside back and is a strong defender, will be encouraged to take on more of a leadership role.

Returning starters Madyson Kordick and Samantha Ruiz will be in a position to have breakout years next season. He also expects sophomore Ireland Gowen to step in as the goalie, which is a top position — but Crafton said she seems eager to take on the role.

Though the Lady Mules finished with a winning record, Crafton said there were a few adjustments he would have liked to see, but plans to implement those changes for next season.

“For next year, I think we could be a little bit stronger,” Crafton said. “I think during some games, we played with low strength during some games, and having that would have helped us be stronger on the ball. Focusing on conditioning and running is great, but adding some strength to this program will be great for us, and I think it will help us be more prepared for tough games in the future.”