Two prior Madill soccer team captains cheered the girls on the field for support. Both captains went on to play at the junior collegiate level for Murray State College. Carina Castaneda, Class of 2021 alumna, gave a shout out to some of the players she’s played with and seen grow in the sport.
“Madill has a lot of good players this year,” Castaneda said. “They have all improved individually and as a team. Mercedes, Lucero, Suzette, Cherisse, Amada, Lucia and Marissa have really improved and I’m proud to see them continue getting better.”
Class of 2022 alumna Jimena Guevara sent encouraging words to the high school girls.
“Cherish the time you have playing this sport in high school,” Guevara said. “Itleadsontogreatmemories and it builds character for your self-esteem. Don’t give up on yourself and put your head down, because there is always the next play.”
The Lady Cats started off the 2022-23 season back-toback losses against tough rivals.Theyplayedharduntil the whistle blew each game.
They fell to the Durant Lions 1 to 7 on March 7 and to the Ardmore Tigers 2 to 8 onMarch9.Eventhoughthey were both losses, there were many great saves against these teams’ rough offense.
Mercedes Stumblingbear was responsible for the sole goal at the home game against the Lions at the end of the first half. She was also one of the two scorers for the Ardmore game at Noble Stadium.
This is her last year on the field for the Wildcats and she seems determined to make a lasting impression when weaving through the field at a lightning speed, which she has been known for since she was young.
Class of 2017 alumna Sol Canseco sent a shout out to Stumblingbear.
“A player that really stood out for me was Mercedes, Canseco said. “She’s a great attacker and a player to look out for.”
Class of 2018’s Lady Cats soccer captain, Alyssa Emery spoke about the importance of balancing school, work and the sport they love. She emphasized how high school soccerhadhelpedherprepare for being a collegiate studentathlete.