After two years of finishing as the 6A runners’ up, the Pumas are looking to get back to championship form in 2019-20. 

Last year’s team went 22-1-3 with key players out for major parts of the season. With the loss of six seniors, the team hopes to start the season with a reloaded roster. 

Emilee Matalon, Kylie Rehberger, and Mya Prickett all got injured before the season but the team isn’t going to let that get in the way of a shot at states. Head coach John Roberts said, “Soccer is a big injury sport.” The coaches are aware of the injuries that can happen and know what to do to work around it. 

On the bright side of things the team is still in possession of some star players. When talking about specific players performing, Coach Roberts said, “I hope all of them do.” The players on the team are all looking forward to the fresh start this season. Coach Roberts said, “We’re really going to be relying on Brenna Alderson and Joey Lujan.” Fans can expect to see these players along with Mikella Reed, Kendall McIntyre, and Brenna Rodriguez on the field and playing.

Junior goalkeeper Jazmyn Brass said “I think we will improve because we are bringing in really good underclassmen and the upperclassmen are hardworking and good leaders.” 

The team is prepared to work hard to get to where they were last year. The state championship game is one every player dreams to play in. “There’s always a chance,” Roberts said, “obviously every team that gets there needs a little luck.” With the motivation to overcome the adversities the team has received they can certainly return to the championship. 

If the team could get the injury bug off their back this may be the year they bring home Perry women’s soccer first ever State Championship.