By By Ryan Satcher / staff writer
Aug. 15, 2003
After a successful season last year, the Lamar School girls' soccer team is looking to do even better this season.
Second-year coach Eddie Escobar feels the team has a good chance to improve and advance in the postseason.
Last year, the team advanced to the postseason and went up 2-0 on Pillow Academy before losing 3-2. This year, added depth should help the team out.
This season, the Lady Raiders are preseason ranked No. 3 in the MPSA by the Jackson Clarion-Ledger.
Up front, Amy Swartzfager and Jessi Fort should lead the goal-scoring for the Lady Raiders.
The midfield should also be very solid as sophomore Emily Thompson and senior Kelly Brown control the middle of the field.
According to Escobar, the defense should be very strong for the Lady Raiders this season.
Jasmin Harris should lead the defense from sweeper. Blair Barham and Lizzy Williams should also be important in the Lady Raiders' defense.
Lamar is still looking to find a keeper to anchor the strong defense, however. Williams, Fort, Swartzfager and Harris have been working at the position along with Meridian High transfer Holly Thrash.
Cheryl Luquire should also play an important role for Lamar if she is able to overcome a knee injury. She should be able to help the team at keeper or in the field if she is able to play.
Jackson Prep should once again be Lamar's biggest challenge in division play. The two teams square off in Jackson on Aug. 26.
The Lady Raiders will also play Copiah, Presbyterian Christian, Laurel Christian and Central Hinds in district play.