By Alyson Lawrence, Staff Writer
Injuries have been a big challenge this season for the Newman's women’s soccer team, which has 12 players on the sidelines.
The Jets started conference play Sept. 18 against Pittsburg State University, losing 0-3. Since then, Newman has played three more conference games against Central Missouri, Northwest Missouri and Missouri Western University. The Jets are currently 0-4 in conference play.
Injuries ranging from ankle sprains to concussions have caused the Jets to have to adjust their lineup this season, said Newman head coach Dylan Gruntzel.
“The positives of our situation is other players get a chance to develop and grow,” he said. “Players that wanted to be more in a role are now playing more minutes.”
Lexi Bauer, junior defender, said the team is trying to stay hopeful.
“We are all focused on continuing to grow as a team,” she said. “And as long as we stay on the same page, I know we will be able to achieve this.”
Despite the injuries, a big focus for the Jets has been celebrating the little wins along the way, Gruntzel said.
One of those little wins came during a Sept. 18 game against No.12-ranked Pittsburg State. Although the team lost 0-3, it didn’t allow a goal during the run of play. All of Pittsburg’s goals came from corner kicks.
“I’m happy with their mentality,” Gruntzel said. “They’re all in good spirits and still competing.”
Scoring goals, communication, and team chemistry are all areas the team has been improving on, Bauer said.
“It is the best feeling knowing you are surrounded by an amazing group of women that you can always count on,” she said.
Gruntzel said that, despite the challenges this season, the team has a positive outlook.
“Not everyone is fortunate to have a career that they enjoy the people they are around,” he said. “But. . . I enjoy coming here, my team, and the people I get to work with.”
PHOTO: Richard Rico, Newman Athletics
