READY FOR SPOTLIGHT

From tbo.com

Freedom's girls (8-2-2) have only one starting senior in forward Monique Lamotte, who is leading the team with 13 goals. The next leading scorer on the team, junior Olivia Bloemke, has five goals.

However, Lamotte isn't the only thing the young Patriots have going for them, according to Coach Chris Hinkle.

"Monique does a lot for this team," Hinkle said. "But she can't, and doesn't, do everything."

Hinkle isn't wrong, as a strong but young defense has made a statement for the Patriots in a tough 5A-8 district. The Patriots have only allowed 10 goals this season in 12 matches, getting great play from junior sweeper Gabbie Peek and freshman goalkeeper Chloe Stokes.

"We play really strong defense," Hinkle said. "We don't allow very many shots, and our skill players in the back know how to shut down team's attacks."

This year, the Patriots might have what it takes to put themselves into region play for the first time since 2005.

In order to do that, however, they'll need to get past Newsome and Bloomingdale, who have represented the district each of the past three seasons. Freedom drew 0-0 with Bloomingdale and lost 2-1 to Newsome earlier in the season.

Bill Ward, Nicholas Murray, Jarrett Guthrie