Kentridge girls soccer searches for second consecutive state berth

When the Kentridge girls soccer team set off a season ago, their goal was to make the state tournament and snap the four-year drought. They did that, and with a team that only graduated six seniors, their eyes are set on repeating that success.

“We have the momentum. Now the expectation is to make it to state. Last year, state was our goal. This year it’s an expectation,” senior Addie Stendera said.

So far, through nine practices, the Chargers know one thing for certain. The voice and leadership from Jayda Sparks, who is now playing soccer at Eastern Washington University, is missing for the first time in four years.

But the Chargers’ seniors have already stepped up. This current crop of seniors saw what it took to get to state last year and are ready for the challenge. Stendera and fellow senior leader Sierra Wallace are setting an example for their teammates to look toward.

“They are leading by example. Most of that team looks right up to them,” Manager Jeff Flemming said.

Kentridge is going to need a goal scorer this year with Sparks gone and Ella Schug also playing in college. This Charger team is more than likely going to have a new top scorer this season.

“A lot of our seniors were our top goal scorers. In our close games, Ella, Jayda, or Alexa scored. Now it is going to be about filling those shoes,” Stendera said.

It takes loads of effort, quality and tenacity to be a goal scorer — take it from Wallace.

“Being confident on the ball and know who you are playing against. You need to have the mentality that you are going to be better than them,” she said.

That player can be Tiana Stephenson.

“I love her work ethic and what she does upfront. She’ll be one of those players that can fill the (scoring) void,” Flemming said.

In the midfield area, Lauren Covello has stood out as a player who has taken strides to be a leader.

“Going from her sophomore to junior year is a big jump … She has looked really good at tryouts and our first couple practices,” Stendera said.

“She is a box-to-box midfielder, which is so hard to find. So we are really lucky to have her,” Wallace said.

In between the posts, Alexis Natividad is entering her senior year. Last year, Kentridge allowed .3 goals per game during the league schedule, fewest in the 4A NPSL, and tied for the fewest with Auburn Riverside in the entire NPSL.

She also has looked like she is going to take a step forward: “This year I think she is really going to shine,” Wallace said.

“She is really good and is way more aggresive this year,” Flemming said on his keeper.

Kentridge’s tough schedule from a year ago got even tougher with the additions of Stadium and Auburn Riverside.

“I am really excited. I know our team is so good. It will challenge us and get us ready for state,” Wallace said.

Last year, Kentridge won by two or more goals eight different times. Flemming doesn’t see that happening again this year: “We won’t see any lopsided wins. Every game you are going into it thinking one goal is literally gold, that is the gem. It is going to come down a few opportunities each way. You either convert or you don’t.”

Kentridge opens up with Bonney Lake on Sept. 10 at home, kick off at 7:30 p.m.

Charger player looks for a teammate to pass to. Ben Ray / The Reporter