Soaking it in: ‘Reloading’ year is a special one for Red Wolves soccer program

Published 2:13 pm Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Karli White thinks for a moment, then decides what she’d like to get out of play on the Cedarcrest High School soccer team this fall.

“Good friendships with the girls who it helps me get to know better,” says White, only a sophomore but already a leader on the team. “I hope my friendships will last a long time.”

White wants to enjoy this season—”to just soak it all in.”

The forward and midfielder also plans to sink as many goals as possible, too.

White is one of a reloaded Red Wolves team that, as they’ve done three times in the last seven years, made a bid to the state playoffs.

With seven seniors, there is some learning to do, but also, already this season, a lot of cohesion and strong attitudes, says new coach Amanda Johnson, a former Red Wolf herself and 2011 Seattle Pacific grad.

“It’s very doable,” Johnson says of a state push.

On offense, look for senior Shannon Fischer to show quick moves and good skills at outside and center mid-field.

Junior Rachel Wilhelm is a defensive midfielder powerhouse in the air, going up to win disputed balls. Morgan Kather and Lauren Rodher will play at center, and on the outside, Gillian Minnie and Olivia May are some players to watch, as is Taylor Kirschenmann.

White, a Crossfire Premiere-experienced club player, will be sharing her knowledge with a younger players. She plans to take freshmen forwards under her wing and make them comfortable.

“I need to step up this season and take that leadership role,” she said.

Club play changed her. When White first inquired about Crossfire, she assumed players had to be taller, bigger, stronger. She made the cut.

“I was so happy, I worked so hard,” she said. “I’ve had so many great experiences with the girls. It’s helped me develop a lot, playing at that level.”

On the field, she plays in the moment, and sees how the game can develop, fast.

“She has a great touch—super fun to watch,” Johnson said. “It will be good to have someone who can really control the ball for us.”

Expect White to create opportunities for herself and other players this season, while having a fun experience.