Having the best players in key positions can be the difference between a good team and a championship contender. The Herriman Women’s Soccer team, full of talent and skill, shows how individual players elevate the squad’s overall performance. Here’s a ranking of the top 10 players this season, based on their impact in critical roles on the field.

1. Brookley Rasmussen (Midfielder)Brookley is the most dynamic player on the team. Her poise and patience on the ball are exceptional, and she’s constantly scanning the field with her head up, aware of everything around her. Brookley’s vision allows her to make seemingly impossible passes, creating scoring opportunities for her teammates. She also takes free kicks and corner kicks, where her precision often leads to goals and assists. Her ability to kick with both feet makes her a versatile and dangerous player in any situation.

2. Tae Hansen (Center Back)Tae is the defensive backbone of the team. As a center back, her presence on the field is undeniable. She’s a vocal leader, “quarterbacking” the defense and ensuring the team stays organized. Her defensive instincts and ability to read the game allow her to neutralize threats before they become dangerous. Tae’s ability to communicate and stay aware of her surroundings is a crucial part of Herriman’s defensive strength.

3. Gracie Thoreson (Defender)Gracie’s defensive skills complement Tae’s, but where she truly shines is her ability to kick the ball harder than anyone on the team. She consistently delivers powerful free kicks that create scoring chances, and her size makes her a dominant force during corner kicks. Gracie’s aerial prowess and her ability to get her head on the ball often lead to crucial goals for Herriman.

4. Ella Reading (Midfielder)Like Brookley, Ella plays a pivotal role in organizing the offense as a center midfielder. While she may not be as quick, her ability to win 50/50 balls in the air is invaluable, especially in the midfield where possession battles can determine the outcome of the game. Ella’s ability to track back on defense and her awareness in transitioning from defense to offense makes her a well-rounded player.

5. Bella Ziegenbusch (Defender)Bella, a freshman, has proven herself as one of the most aggressive and instinctive players on the team. Despite her young age, Bella shows no fear in her defensive play. She thrives in situations where she can capitalize on opponents’ mistakes, using her excellent timing and defensive instincts to strip the ball away. Her ability to read the game and make smart challenges makes her a valuable asset on Herriman’s defense.

6. Peyton Smith (Attacker)Peyton is the core of the team’s attacking force. Since her sophomore year, she has consistently been near the top of the scoring leaderboard. Her speed and finishing ability are her greatest assets, making her a constant threat to opposing defenses. With space, Peyton can fire off quick shots, and when provided with through balls over the back line, she uses her pace to create dangerous scoring opportunities.

7. Stasia Estrada (Goalkeeper)Stasia’s agility and speed set her apart from the other goalkeepers. A key part of goaltending is making split-second decisions, and Stasia excels in this area, particularly in tight situations where her reflexes can make game-saving stops. Her quick movements during set pieces are crucial in keeping the team safe from corner kicks and free kicks, where she often excels at positioning and making clutch saves.

8. Halle Willardson (Utility Player)Halle’s versatility makes her an invaluable player. She’s the fastest on the team, and her speed allows her to be deployed in various positions. As an attacker, she can beat defenders to the outside and create dangerous crosses. On defense, she can match up against the fastest attackers and prevent scoring opportunities. Halle’s adaptability makes her a key piece in both the offensive and defensive phases of the game.

9. Jaycie Thompson (Attacker)Jaycie’s greatest asset is her grit and determination. She never stops giving 100%, and her relentless work ethic drives defenders crazy. While some attackers slow down when the defense gains possession, Jaycie is always pressing, forcing opponents into mistakes. Her aggressiveness in pursuing the ball and battling for possession makes her a constant threat in the attacking third.

10. Alex Barton (Goalkeeper)At 5’11”, Alex has a natural advantage in goal with her height, allowing her to shut down angles more quickly than most keepers. Her strong soccer instincts and ability to read set pieces give her an edge during high-pressure situations like free kicks and corner kicks, where she can come off her line to clear the ball before it becomes a threat.

Conclusion

The rankings reflect the unique skills each player brings to the team. From Brookley Rasmussen’s playmaking abilities to Alex Barton’s goalkeeping prowess, every athlete plays a critical role in ensuring the success of Herriman Women’s Soccer. By placing their best talent in the most crucial positions, the team creates a balanced and effective strategy that maximizes their chances of success on the field. Whether it’s scoring goals, shutting down opponents, or organizing play in the midfield, these players form the backbone of the team’s achievements this season.