CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – The Clarksville High girl’s soccer team has now won nine consecutive district titles after defeating Northeast 5-1 on Friday, Oct. 9.
“I feel a sense of pride for the girls and the program as a whole,” said Clarksville girls soccer coach Sara Kluttz on the championship streak. “Not the individual kind of pride that turns you bad, but the kind that comes from knowing you have given your best to something bigger than yourself. These girls are part of a legacy, a standard of achievement.”
Clarksville’s JaNiya Stevens earned All-Tournament honors after the contest for her performances during the district postseason. The senior recorded two assists in the championship match, showing her ability to get her teammates involved in the scoring category.
“JaNiya is a talented player no doubt,” Kluttz said. “The thing that separates talented players from great players is the ability to submit their talent and energy to their team’s overall game plan and effort. JaNiya has learned to put the ball in the back of the net for her team and also to make the decision to roll it across or set up another player. Her assists in the championship match were crucial as our playmaker.”
Four Lady Wildcats including Ella Roth, Allie Gilmer, Ashley Campagne and Maddie Bond were each named to the 13-AAA All-District Team. Kluttz shared what she believes makes the players truly deserving of the accolade.
“Honestly, there are more girls that I would add to that list,” Kluttz said. “Our team accomplishments come from a team effort. This is true this year more than ever as our starting lineup has changed every game. The girls selected have been solid players and leaders for our team. They have led their team to find a new way to win every game.”
Clarksville has a break in game action until Oct. 20 when they host Munford in the opening round of the Class AAA regional tournament.
“This week of practice is crucial for us,” said Kluttz. “We have to get fitter and tougher. We have to iron out some details offensively and get mentally prepared. My goal is to put the girls through pressure situations and demands that will prepare them for the tough games ahead. We have to be physically tough and mentally composed enough to stick to our style of soccer as we play teams who rely on physicality. I am hopeful that we will be able to put all our pieces together for the first time all season.”
The Lady Wildcats made quick work of the Lady Cougars last season in the region semifinals 9-0, but Kluttz understands that every year is different.
“Last year’s wins and losses are insignificant,” Kluttz said. “Our dreams rely on our game Monday. If we lose, we are done. If we win, we earn a sectional match and a chance for the state tournament. I expect them to come and fight for their lives, just like we will. I will ensure my girls that we have done the work and are prepared to win, but it will not be given to them. They will fight for their dreams for 80 minutes.”