SP soccer teams look forward to improved season

By Brad Greer
In only its third year of existence (after reinstatement), the South Panola boys soccer team found itself battling for a playoff spot last season only to come up short on goal differential.
Being a year older and wiser, the Tigers began their quest for that elusive post-season berth by opening their season at Independence Thursday night with its home-opener set for Nov. 28 versus Strayhorn.
“We made great strides as a program last season and hopefully it will carry over to this year,” said Hunter Mize, who also doubles as the girls coach.
“If you look at the whole picture we were two games below .500 and one win away from making the playoffs in only our first year eligible to make the playoffs. I felt like we made a splash in the division where other teams did not think coming to South Panola was going to be a easy win. We were in nearly every match we played and even went overtime with Hernando before winning on penalty kicks. I think that really set the tone for our season,” said Mize.
While the Tigers lost a solid nucleus from last year, leading goal scorer Noah Willis returns as does mid-fielder Jordan Tubbs. Sophomore goalkeeper Gehrig Griffin who stopped 173 out of 220 shots on goal last season also returns.
Mize also said the return of seniors Ryan McCurdy and Chris Casiday should strengthen the Tigers up the middle.
“We lost seven seniors from last year which might sound like a lot but we return our core in the middle of the field and that is very important,” said Mize.
Freshman Logan Cossey along with  twins brothers Abdiel and Abdeel Garza should see playing time. John Railey and Blaine Ware will join the team after the completion of football season.
Girls Soccer
The 2016 season for the South Panola girls team was a struggle to say the least. The Lady Tigers scored only three goals and went winless on the year.
“It was a tough year for us there is no doubt. We had chances to win some close games but never could come up with that one goal. But looking at this year, one key loss was Rebecka Garner at goalie. I think we have a pretty good replacement in Madison Morgan that will help,” said Mize.
Expect a veteran team from the Tigers as eleven seniors dot the roster along with eight juniors, one sophomore and four freshman.
“The one thing we are missing is that one true soccer player. Schools like Hernando and Tupelo have kids that all they’ve known is playing soccer. But the girls are working hard and putting in the time to make sure last year doesn’t happen again,” said Mize.