CM Girls Soccer Ready to Grow and Compete with Strong Team Spirit

MILL HALL-The Central Mountain girls soccer team is entering the 2024-25 season with a blend of excitement and challenges. With a roster of 23 players for the high school program and 28 for the junior high, the program is focused on rebuilding after losing 11 seniors who were key to last season’s success. The team returns six varsity players, but the loss of such a large graduating class means this season will be a time of growth and development.

Head coach Ryan Veltri has set clear goals for the team: to be competitive, grow, and develop the younger players, with the ultimate aim of returning to the district tournament. The team faces a tough schedule, with every opponent posing a potential challenge. Staying healthy is critical, as the team’s depth will be tested throughout the season. Coach Veltri also emphasizes the importance of enjoying the game and maintaining a balance between competition and the overall high school sports experience.

Key contributors this season will include seniors Jazzy Anderson and Archie Walker, who are expected to lead the team both on and off the field. Juniors Kendall Veltri, Cayman Hill, and Camry McCann will need to quickly step into their roles, drawing on their experience from last year to guide the younger players. The team’s chemistry is strong, with a cohesive group that supports one another and works together, which is expected to be a significant asset.

This year’s squad is relatively young and inexperienced, with many players eager to make their mark. The biggest challenge will be managing the small numbers, particularly when trying to balance varsity and junior varsity needs. Some younger players will be thrust into varsity roles earlier than anticipated, which could accelerate their development but also present challenges.

Tactically, the team is focused on strengthening its defense and improving its ability to convert scoring opportunities. Coach Veltri plans to emphasize a more defensive approach when out of possession and a more aggressive, numbers-forward strategy when attacking. The team will need to work hard to overcome technical shortcomings and execute their tactics effectively.

The schedule is packed with tough matches, including games against state champions Central Columbia, state semi-finalist Shikellamy, and strong teams like Altoona, Bloomsburg, Selinsgrove, Williamsport, Danville, and Lewisburg. There will be little room for error, and the team will need to bring its best effort to every game.

Coach Veltri is supported by a strong coaching staff, including Courtney Yourchak (JH Head Coach), Lauren Heimer, and Rebecca Leuthold. Together, they are committed to guiding this young team through a challenging but promising season.

While the season presents numerous challenges, the Central Mountain girls soccer team is determined to make the most of what they have, focusing on development, growth, and building a solid foundation for the future.