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Crimson Bears girls soccer to celebrate seniors on Wednesday
- Klas Stolpe
- 12 hours ago
- 21 min read
Juneau-Douglas High School: Yadaa.at Kalé team ceremony at 5 p.m. on Adair-Kennedy Memorial Park pitch
By Klas Stolpe
Juneau Independent
The Juneau-Douglas High School: Yadaa.at Kalé girls soccer team seniors will be honored at 5 p.m. Wednesday, May 20, on the Adair-Kennedy Memorial Park pitch prior to the Crimson Bears game against the Ketchikan Kings girls soccer team.
The following are questions the Juneau Independent asked of the seniors, and the answers they shared.
TEARAMAE ALEXANDER, No. 1, goalkeeper
Q: What does it take to be a JDHS player and wear the uniform?
A: It takes dedication and patience, giving it your all and being there for your team.
Q: What are you proudest about doing (outside of sports) while attending JDHS?
A: Being an FCA leader.
Q: Advice to your freshman self (and young student/athletes)?
A: To keep working hard, even on the hard days and to have more confidence.
Q: What do you bring to the game?
A: I bring positivity, encouragement, and being able to do whatever my coach needs me to do.
Q: Plans after high school and goals?
A: I plan on attending Trinity Western University in Langley, BC.
Q: Favorites?
A: Food: Tacos. Movie/show: "Bluey." Music: N/A. Book: "The Bible." Hobbies: N/A. Quote: N/A.
Q: What would be the perfect graduation gift to receive?
A: Nee dohs or having Matt dab.
Q: If anywhere, where would you take your parents and/or siblings?
A: I would take my family to Italy.
Q: Something most people don’t know about you?
A: I used to play the flute for four years.
Q: How long can you go without using a cell phone?
A: About a week.
Coaches’ Comments:
This is Tearamae’s fourth year, starting with JV early on, playing wing, and in her final year, goalkeeper for varsity. With a shortage of goalkeepers during her junior year, if you ask Tearamae, she would say she was asked to play keeper for the JVs. Though if you asked one of the coaches, said coach would say, Tearamae was the one who asked to play. Regardless of who you believe, Tearamae stepping in to play goalkeeper her junior year for JV was a blessing. She showed fearlessness, making awe-inspiring saves, as well as split-second decisions, making it seem she had played this position for years. This is evident this season, in games against Chugiak and West Valley. Tearamae will be attending Trinity Western University in Langley, BC, and the team can’t thank her enough for stepping in to play goalkeeper.
PIPER BLACKGOAT DIEHL, No. 13, defense and defensive-mid
Q: What does it take to be a JDHS player and wear the uniform?
A: Multitasking plus dedication plus watching out for Martin’s Megs.
Q: What are you proudest about doing (outside of sports) while attending JDHS?
A: Making new connections, experiences and friends. Being able to witness Koby eating 12 Canes chicken strips in one sitting.
Q: Advice to your freshman self (and young student/athletes)
A: Be on time, bring extra hair ties and laugh with your teammates as much as possible.
Q: What do you bring to the game?
A: I do not think I have ever gotten mad at any of my teammates after a game or practice and I can smile about every single game I have played, lose or win.
Q: Plans after high school and goals?
A: To give back to my community. I plan on earning a Bachelor of Science and starting a career as a dental hygienist within the Native community in Arizona.
Q: Favorites?
A: Food: Fruit. Movie/show: "Conclave." Music: Cupcakke. Book: "Pride and Prejudice." Hobbies: Paddleboarding. Quote: "Oh, shoot." —Zoe Tagsip.
Q: What would be the perfect graduation gift to receive?
A: An Alaska flag to hang up in a dorm room.
Q: If anywhere, where would you take your parents and/or siblings?
A: I loved the Philippines and I would love for my family to get to experience it as well.
Q: Something most people don’t know about you?
A: I took karate for three years, earning a green belt.
Q: How long can you go without using a cell phone?
A: I once lost my phone for six days and found it under my car seat. I also check my phone over 67 times a day, so it depends.
Coaches’ Comments:
For four years, Piper has been the steady force holding the line for this team. She reads the field exceptionally well and has been one of the most reliable support systems for every player around her. Piper is truly a team-first athlete in every sense of the phrase…She is ever-present, dependable, and steady, and never once did we hear a negative word from her on the field. Early in her career, we knew exactly the kind of player she was during a TMHS varsity match against JDHS when she gave absolutely everything she had, even finishing the game fairly hypothermic. That level of commitment defined her career…Piper was always willing to play wherever the team needed her without hesitation. What speaks even more to her character is her willingness to ask for a sub if she felt she wasn’t performing at her best because she cared more about the success of the team than herself…Her selflessness, toughness, and consistency have left a huge mark on this program…This fall, Piper will attend Northern Arizona University to pursue a degree in science with a specialization in dental hygiene.
RAYNONA FRAKER, Rae, No. 0, goalie
Q: What does it take to be a JDHS player and wear the uniform?
A: It takes a lot of physical and mental strength to wear the JDHS goalie uniform.
Q: What are you proudest about doing (outside of sports) while attending JDHS?
A: Being able to support my younger family at sporting events.
Q: Advice to your freshman self (and young student/athletes)?
A: Listen to your parents.
Q: What do you bring to the game?
A: I would like to think I bring a lot of trust into the game.
Q: Plans after high school and goals?
A: Continuing my soccer career at Edmonds Community College, get my associate's in sociology (thank you, Priscilla Lam).
Q: Favorites?
A: Food: Bulalo. Movie/show: "Twilight." Music: PND. Book: "Harry Potter." Hobby: Hunting. Quote: “Don’t focus on the past or you will miss the future.” —Fairy Godmother, "Descendants."
Q: What would be the perfect graduation gift to receive?
A: Handmade cards.
Q: If anywhere, where would you take your parents and/or siblings?
A: Okinawa, Japan.
Q: Something most people don’t know about you?
A: I used to be a cheerleader and I’m Filipino.
Q: How long can you go without using a cell phone?
A: About 5-7 hours.
Coaches’ Comments:
This is Ray’s third year, being a Falcon her sophomore year, and then a Crimson Bear her junior and senior years. Watching Ray play in goal during her sophomore and junior years, you can tell something was there, but work was needed. On the basketball court, Ray is known for being relentless and intense, and we feel it is these two characteristics that Ray brought this season to improve as a goalkeeper. When Tearamae could not play in the second half of our first game against Chugiak due to injury, Ray stepped in goal, stepped up huge, and made some key saves as we won a close one, 3-2. Ray will be continuing her soccer next year at Edmonds Community College and is hoping to study criminal justice in the hopes of being a police officer when she is old enough to apply.
GRACE GAZDIG, No. 11, holding mid
Q: What does it take to be a JDHS player and wear the uniform?
A: Wearing the JDHS soccer uniform means showing dedication, teamwork, and pride.
Q: What are you proudest about doing (outside of sports) while attending JDHS?
A: Outside of sports, I’m proudest of being involved in activities that helped me grow as a leader and person, while balancing school, teamwork, and my responsibilities.
Q: Advice to your freshman self (and young student/athletes). A: Have fun and enjoy every moment. High school and sports go by really fast, so work hard, make memories, and enjoy your teammates!
Q: What do you bring to the game?
A: I bring energy, effort, and determination.
Q: Plans after high school and goals?
A: I plan on attending Colorado State University to study fish and wildlife conservation biology.
Q: Favorites?
A: Food: Halibut tacos. Movie/show: "Ted Lasso." Music: Red Hot Chili Peppers. Book: "Looking for Alaska." Hobbies: Hiking, camping, spending time with friends. Quote: “Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans.” - John Lennon.
Q: What would be the perfect graduation gift to receive?
A: A fun trip or new camping gear.
Q: If anywhere, where would you take your parents and/or siblings?
A: Hawaii.
Q: Something most people don’t know about you?
A: I like to make Lino block prints.
Q: How long can you go without using a cell phone?
A: Days if I am with the right people!
Coaches’ Comments: This is Grace’s fourth year, starting as a forward her freshman year for JV, then shifting to holding mid and the backline, her junior and senior year. When she came in as a freshman, Grace had never played before, which is stunning to believe, considering how well she plays the game today. From scoring her first ever goal against Ketchikan in the Apr 8th JV game as a freshman, to being a key defensive player for the JVs, as the primary holding mid, her junior and senior year, to getting the opportunity to play for varsity as part of the backline against West Valley’s JV in Fairbanks this year, seeing Grace’s progression as soccer player is incredible–not bad for someone who never played soccer several years ago. Grace will be heading to Colorado State University to study fish and wildlife conservation biology and we wish her all the best.
LYDIA HEIDEMANN, No. 14, defense
Q: What does it take to be a JDHS player and wear the uniform?
A: Dedication to yourself and your teammates!
Q: What are you proudest about doing (outside of sports) while attending JDHS?
A: I am proudest of my grades and friendships.
Q: Advice to your freshman self (and young student/athletes)
A: Always have fun!
Q: What do you bring to the game?
A: A positive attitude and energy and support to my teammates.
Q: Plans after high school and goals?
A. Attend Western Washington University to major in kinesiology and hopefully become an occupational therapist.
Q: Favorites?
A: Food: McChicken. Movie/show: "Bob’s Burgers." Music: Clairo. Book: "Little Women." Hobbies: Climbing. Quote: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”
Q: What would be the perfect graduation gift to receive?
A: Gift cards.
Q: If anywhere, where would you take your parents and/or siblings?
A: Denmark.
Q: Something most people don’t know about you?
A: I have double-jointed thumbs.
Q: How long can you go without using a cell phone?
A: Not very long at all, maybe a few hours.
Coaches’ Comments: This is Lydia’s fourth year, primarily playing in the backline for JV. Lydia is not the fastest player, nor the flashiest. You won’t catch her striking a ball long, downfield, jumping higher than someone to head the ball, or probably be the first choice on a penalty kick. Arguably though, she is one of our more driven and persistent players. She has played through agonizing shin splints and came back from a broken leg injury that occurred on field. She simply doesn’t quit and always plays hard, characteristics the JVs will miss next season. We wish Lydia all the best in attending Western Washington University, majoring in kinesiology in hopes of becoming an occupational therapist.
AINSLEY MALLOT, “Ains”, No. 9, left wing
Q: What does it take to be a JDHS player and wear the uniform?
A: Hard work, compassion, and energy.
Q: What are you proudest about doing (outside of sports) while attending JDHS?
A: I am proudest of balancing all my extracurriculars with school and family.
Q: Advice to your freshman self (and young student/athletes)
A: Work hard and have fun, it is over before you know it.
Q: What do you bring to the game?
A: I try to bring a disciplined and positive energy to the game.
Q: Plans after high school and goals?
A: I am attending Stanford University in the fall to pursue a degree in biology.
Q: Favorites?
A: Food: Rice. Movie/show: "New Girl." Music: Anything by Fleetwood Mac. Book: N/A. Hobbies: Hiking. Quote: N/A.
Q: What would be the perfect graduation gift to receive?
A: A collection of memories from pre-K through senior year.
Q: If anywhere, where would you take your parents and/or siblings?
A: I would love to take my family to explore Aotearoa together.
Q: Something most people don’t know about you?
A: I have a lot of fun going line dancing and learning new things.
Q: How long can you go without using a cell phone?
A: I would like to think I could go at least a few days.
Coaches’ Comments: This is Ainsley’s fourth year, having played pretty much every position on the pitch for JV. As a freshman, playing wing, she scored her first-ever goal for JV against TM. As a sophomore, she would have the first goal of the season for JVs, again as a wing. As a junior, she helped JVs on the defensive side, playing either holding mid, being an outside back, and even goalkeeper. Finally, her senior year, things have come full circle, playing forward/wing, scoring a goal against JSC in the first JV game of the season, and scoring a PK in Ketchikan. Ainsley’s versatility, leadership, and heart will be missed. We wish Ainsley all the best as she heads to Stanford University to study biology.
HAZEL MCWILLIAMS, No. 2, defense
Q: What does it take to be a JDHS player and wear the uniform?
A: It takes commitment and a good attitude!
Q: What are you proudest about doing (outside of sports) while attending JDHS?
A: I am most proud of being involved in a lot of clubs and doing internships while doing sports and school.
Q: Advice to your freshman self (and young student/athletes)
A: Try to get outside of your comfort zone and try as many new things as you can, even if you are not good at them!
Q: What do you bring to the game?
A: I always try to bring a positive attitude to every game and encourage everyone to do their best.
Q: Plans after high school and goals?
A: This fall, I will begin studying biology at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver!
Q: Favorites?
A: Food: Grilled cheese. Movie/show: "The Office." Music: N/A. Book: Either "The Handmaid’s Tale" or "Atmosphere." Hobbies: Watching short films, getting ice cream with my friends, reading and doing crafts. Quote: My favorite quote is pretty much anything from Mary Oliver.
Q: What would be the perfect graduation gift to receive?
A: Anything!
Q: If anywhere, where would you take your parents and/or siblings?
A: I would take my family to New Zealand.
Q: Something most people don’t know about you?
A: Most people don’t know that I am a pretty picky eater.
Q: How long can you go without using a cell phone?
A: Less than 24 hours because I will be really sad if I lose my 934-day Duolingo streak.
Coaches’ Comments: This is Hazel’s fourth year, having played some wing and forward early on, but primarily with the backline her junior and senior year for JV. Hazel is planning to study biology. With that in mind, to help with Hazel’s senior write up, coaches did an internet search for “character traits to study biology.” Under “Personal and Behavioral Traits”, words such as patience, perseverance, adaptability, and self-direction were noted as traits needed to study biology. Patience makes sense, as you never want to panic as a defender. Perseverance makes sense, as mistakes are going to be made as a defender, and when they do, you simply need to keep pushing through. Adaptability makes sense the game is always changing, so you simply need to adapt to what is being presented to you. And finally, self-direction…a coach can only do so much; ultimately, it is on the player to perform, to which Hazel certainly did–she always fought for every ball, she communicated with teammates, and never quit on herself and the team. We wish Hazel all the best as she heads to the University of British Columbia in Vancouver to study biology.
SASHA MORRISON, No. 20, forward
Q: What does it take to be a JDHS player and wear the uniform?
A: I feel what it takes to be a JDHS player and wear the uniform is to always bring a positive energy to the team and good sportsmanship.
Q: What are you proudest about doing (outside of sports) while attending JDHS?
A: I am proudest of being able to go hang out with friends and going on adventures in our small town.
Q: Advice to your freshman self (and young student/athletes)
A: I would tell myself that you do not just improve in one day, but if you keep on putting in effort you will get to where you want to be.
Q: What do you bring to the game?
A: I feel I bring good sportsmanship in making sure everyone has a good time no matter the score.
Q: Plans after high school and goals?
A: I plan to go the San Jose State College in California. My goal is to be an event planner.
Q: Favorites?
A: Food: Sushi. Movie/show: "The OC." Music: Dominic Fike. Book: N/A; Hobbies: Hanging out with friends, hiking, and shopping. Quote: N/A.
Q: What would be the perfect graduation gift to receive?
A: Luggage.
Q: If anywhere, where would you take your parents and/or siblings?
A: Italy.
Q: Something most people don’t know about you?
A: I am left handed.
Q: How long can you go without using a cell phone?
A: Maybe five minutes.
Coaches’ Comments: This is Sasha’s fourth year, having played wing, forward, and in the backline for JV. Sasha was one of the few who wasn’t hesitant to come up to someone and ask for more information about a field position, or simply, how she could be a better soccer player. Her inquisition, hustle and determination, were key characteristics that made her an integral part of the JV. However, Sasha’s speed is her greatest strength. As a junior, towards the end of last season against Juneau Soccer Club, her speed in the backline was essential in slowing down JSC’s attackers, showing defensive principles such as defending “side-on," dictating where the attack was going. We wish Sasha all the best as she heads to San Jose State University, as she pursues hospitality administration/tourism hospitality and event planning.
KENZIE SIMONSON, “Kenz”, No. 7, right wingback
Q: What does it take to be a JDHS player and wear the uniform?
A: You have to be determined and be confident within yourself, you have to be able to work with your teammates and bring a positive mindset.
Q: What are you proudest about doing (outside of sports) while attending JDHS?
A: I am proudest of the friends I have surrounded myself with and the grades I have achieved. I have some of the same friends I have had for a while, and others I have just gotten close with, but they all have consistently made me a better person and have always been there for me.
Q: Advice to your freshman self (and young student/athletes)
A: I would say to keep working and putting in the effort, especially in the off season because you will improve so much over the course of your high school years. And never give up on doing what you love because there are always great things to come.
Q: What do you bring to the game?
A: I think I bring positivity and effort. I feel like I always want the best for teammates and want them to play to their fullest potential. I always give 100% effort, even on off days I feel like I always give my best.
Q: Plans after high school and goals?
A: I am attending the University of Southeast Alaska here in town, and will major in business with an emphasis in accounting. I am hoping to start working as well and gain experience in the industry.
Q: Favorites?
A: Food: Pasta. Movie/show: "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days." Music: I like older music. Book: N/A; Hobbies: I love to bake and go hiking. Quote: "Always let your conscience be your guide."
Q: What would be the perfect graduation gift to receive?
A: Definitely a cat.
Q: If anywhere, where would you take your parents and/or siblings?
A: I would take them to Greece.
Q: Something most people don’t know about you?
A: I moved to Alaska when I was 12 years old and have been playing soccer since I was 4 years old.
Q: How long can you go without using a cell phone?
A: I can usually stay off my phone for long periods of time because I would rather live in the moment than spend all my time on my phone.
Coaches’ Comments: This is Kenzie’s fourth year, playing center back early on, and then progressing to wingback where she has cemented her starting role for the past two years. Consistency is what you get from Kenzie. Just the past weekend in Wasilla, coach Martin said from the bench, “You just have to appreciate Kenzie, she does all the little things that may get missed by others, and puts in a proper shift every time she plays.” The wingback position does a ton of running in a game, and people may not know this, but Kenzie puts in 3-4 miles a day in the off-season on her own to have herself prepared to play a full match. To the first Hard Hat awardee this season, scoring the first two goals of the season against Ketchikan, we wish Kenzie all the best as she heads to UAS to pursue a degree in accounting.
MIRANDA STICHERT, “Randy”, No. 10, defense
Q: What does it take to be a JDHS player and wear the uniform?
A: It takes drive, a willingness to show up and work with your team.
Q: What are you proudest about doing (outside of sports) while attending JDHS?
A: Exploring new trails around Juneau and shooting my first deer.
Q: Advice to your freshman self (and young student/athletes)
A: Have fun, but don’t neglect school!
Q: What do you bring to the game?
A: Strength.
Q: Plans after high school and goals?
A: I am attending University of Wyoming to study Fisheries and Wildlife Biology and Management and Environment and Natural Resources.
Q: Favorites?
A: Food: Mangos. Movie/show: "Baby Driver." Music: N/A; Book: "Never Cry Wolf" by Farley Mowat. Hobbies: Hiking, baking. Quote: N/A.
Q: What would be the perfect graduation gift to receive?
A: New running shoes.
Q: If anywhere, where would you take your parents and/or siblings?
A: Andean Patagonia
Q: Something most people don’t know about you?
A: I like to bake!
Q: How long can you go without using a cell phone?
A: Multiple days.
Coaches’ Comments: Randy has spent four years anchoring our JV defense with both physical and mental toughness. From the beginning, the years she spent competing in Nordic skiing gave her a foundation for success, discipline, endurance, and grit that translated naturally onto the soccer field. What makes Randy special is her holistic approach to improvement. She is constantly looking for ways to better herself as an athlete, teammate, and person. She handles pressure with maturity, and she shows what strong leadership looks like in difficult situations. One of her greatest strengths is her ability to laugh at herself while still holding herself to a high standard. Randy’s consistency, composure, and determination have made her someone her teammates can always rely on, and she has helped shape this team's culture through her example. She will be attending the University of Wyoming to study Fisheries and Wildlife Biology and Management, as well as Environment and Natural Resources.
ANBERLIN TINGEY, “Anberlin”, No. 13 (No. 16 sr nite), wing
Q: What does it take to be a JDHS player and wear the uniform?
A: It takes commitment, and a love for the game.
Q: What are you proudest about doing (outside of sports) while attending JDHS?
A: I have been able to keep my academic studies up and well.
Q: Advice to your freshman self (and young student/athletes)
A: Be positive, Make friends, and have fun!
Q: What do you bring to the game?
A: Energy and teamwork
Q: Plans after high school and goals?
A: Next year I will be attending Boise State University to major in nursing, I hope to continue my education into anesthesiology.
Q: Favorites?
A: Food: Steak and potatoes. Movie/show: "Pride and Prejudice." Music: N/A. Book: "Enders Game." Hobbies: N/A. Quote: "There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind." - CS Lewis.
Q: What would be the perfect graduation gift to receive?
A: Something outdoorsy like a jacket or hammock.
Q: If anywhere, where would you take your parents and/or siblings?
A: Switzerland.
Q: Something most people don’t know about you?
A:I like to play guitar.
Q: How long can you go without using a cell phone?
A: I can go awhile, depends though on situation, probably at least a few days. I really only use my phone for communication.
Coaches’ Comments: Anberlin is sunshine in human form. Through every practice, game, and challenge, she has consistently brought positivity and energy to this program. Even through difficult injury years, she stayed committed to the team and continued to support those around her. She has an infectious laugh that can lighten any moment, and she makes sure everyone feels included and valued. Anberlin leads by example in the purest way. Whenever she was asked to play a new position, she simply smiled, stepped onto the field, and gave everything she had for the team. Her attitude, resilience, and kindness have made her an incredibly important part of this program, and her teammates are better because of her presence. This fall, Anberlin will attend Boise State University to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
LORELEI URRUTIA-LUGO, “Lore”, No. 5 (No. 15 sr nite), wingback
Q: What does it take to be a JDHS player and wear the uniform?
A: Sign up and start playing.
Q: What are you proudest about doing (outside of sports) while attending JDHS?
A: Hanging out with my friends.
Q: Advice to your freshman self (and young student/athletes)
A: Don’t be a Debbie Downer and have fun.
Q: What do you bring to the game?
A: I bring support.
Q: Plans after high school and goals?
A: My plans are going to UAA to study Arts of History and then transferring to finish my bachelor’s degree.
Q: Favorites?
A: Food: Fried rice with sweet and sour chicken. Movie/show: "Thor." Music: soft (Men I Trust, Beabadoobee, Faye Webster, Hanse, etc). Book: N/A. Hobbies: Reading. Quote: N/A.
Q: What would be the perfect graduation gift to receive?
A: A Jellycat with a cute set of flowers.
Q: If anywhere, where would you take your parents and/or siblings?
A: I would take them to Rome, Italy.
Q: Something most people don’t know about you?
A: I LOVE calico critters.
Q: How long can you go without using a cell phone?
A: 0 minutes.
Coaches’ Comments: Lorelei spent four years playing forward and competing with her whole heart every time she stepped onto the field. She brought spirit, energy, and determination to every single day, and no matter the opponent, she was always ready to battle. What stood out most about Lorelei was her willingness to rise to every challenge. She was eager to improve, constantly seeking feedback and looking for ways to grow her game. Whether she was starting, coming off the bench, or being asked to play a different role, she was always ready to step in at any moment and give everything she had. Her work ethic and competitive spirit helped push our team forward, and her positivity and resilience made her an important part of our program. Lorelei plans to attend the University of Alaska Anchorage to study Art History.
PEYTON WHEELER, “Pey”, No. 5, striker
Q: What does it take to be a JDHS player and wear the uniform?
A: You have to want to work hard, be a good teammate, be selfless, be yourself, and be kind to yourself and others.
Q: What are you proudest about doing (outside of sports) while attending JDHS?
A: I am proud of being able to help out with my family’s business.
Q: Advice to your freshman self (and young student/athletes)
A: Do not give up, no matter if it is hard or seems unachievable! Also, make sure you ask Matt to play soccer, not scrimmage!
Q: What do you bring to the game?
A: I would say I bring heart, experience, and competitiveness to the game.
Q: Plans after high school and goals?
A: I plan to attend Peninsula College, study kinesiology, and continue to play soccer for the Pirates. My goal is to become a physical therapist.
Q: Favorites?
A: Food: Steak with asparagus or ice cream. Movie/show: "The Notebook." Music: Daniel Caesar! Book: N/A; Hobbies: Hangout with friends or doing activities outside. Quote: "Failure happens all the time. It happens everyday in practice. What makes you better is how you react to it." - Mia Hamm.
Q: What would be the perfect graduation gift to receive?
A: Tickets to the World Cup!
Q: If anywhere, where would you take your parents and/or siblings?
A: Probably Greece because of its beautiful views, and it seems like a very enjoyable place.
Q: Something most people don’t know about you?
A: Freshman year I played both JDHS soccer and softball in the same season.
Q: How long can you go without using a cell phone?
A: I would say around 24 hours.
Coaches’ Comments: This is Peyton’s fourth year playing striker for varsity. We all know the excitement Peyton has dribbling past several opposing players with relative ease, the rush of a goal scored, the satisfaction of an assist made. Currently she is third all time in goals scored (68) and assists (36)! Sometimes Peyton can get frustrated with herself or teammates when things do not go as planned, but as her four years have gone by it has been great to see her take on a leadership role and not allow it to pull her or her teammates down. We were all disappointed when a game got cancelled on us on a trip up north, and Peyton noticed our team going through the motions during warm-ups as we prepared to play a fill-in team. So she stopped the team warm-up to pull everyone in to remind them that an opportunity to play is always a great day, that we owed it to ourselves and our fill-in opponents to do our best. That is a leader! We wish Peyton all the best playing soccer at Peninsula College, studying kinesiology.
KOBY YTURBE, No. 4, wing or wingback
Q: What does it take to be a JDHS player and wear the uniform?
A: Wearing the uniform takes having dedication for the team and answering Coach Matt’s emails.
Q: What are you proudest about doing (outside of sports) while attending JDHS?
A: I am proud of being able to eat two large meals that included 12 chicken strips at Canes in one sitting after a soccer game.
Q: Advice to your freshman self (and young student/athletes)
A: I would tell myself to never skip practice at TM and enjoy the memories as much as I can and to not let the teams combining bring me down.
Q: What do you bring to the game?
A: The snacks and the hype.
Q: Plans after high school and goals?
A: I plan to attend Oregon State University to be a marine biologist.
Q: Favorites?
A: Food: Spam Musubi. Movie/show: "Water Boy." Music: Kanye West. Book: N/A. Hobbies: Skiing and paddleboarding. Quote: N/A.
Q: What would be the perfect graduation gift to receive?
A: Let me keep the jersey.
Q: If anywhere, where would you take your parents and/or siblings?
A: Australia.
Q: Something most people don’t know about you?
A: I have swam in a shark cage.
Q: How long can you go without using a cell phone?
A: A day.
Coaches’ Comments: Koby may have gotten lost on the way to track and ended up on the soccer field, but we are certainly glad she did. Over the last four years, she has become one of the most fearless and dependable players on this team. Whether it was stepping onto the field, stepping up for a teammate, or making sure the sideline snacks were around as our unofficial snack queen, Koby always showed up without hesitation. She brings a calm presence to the team and balances competitiveness with a great sense of humor. Her teammates know they can count on her no matter the situation. One of my favorite moments this season was finally seeing her take a dive to earn a foul during her senior year, proof that she was finally heeding her coach's wise words. Koby has grown into a player who leads with courage, selflessness, and positivity, leaving a lasting impact on this program. This fall, Koby will attend Oregon State University's Honors College to study Marine Biology.
• Contact Klas Stolpe at sports@juneauindependent.com
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