But the 2014 Bruins have one goal this year, reclaim the district title, and make a run at hoisting the Class 3 state championship trophy.
“We want it more than anything this year,” senior mid fielder Alexus Carson said. “Our team has been doubted all season, and we are going to prove ourselves once district play starts.”
The Bruins (9-11), coached by Gary Drewing II, are ranked 13th out of 74 in their class by MaxPreps.com. The team is confident in its chances and hope to knock off District 9 opponents, Smith-Cotton, Blue Springs South and crosstown rival Hickman high school.
The Bruins have secured key victories over all three teams and beat the Kewpies 2-0 on April 16.
“Regardless of the matchup, they will all be very good, competitive games. But, if I had to choose one, I would most likely choose Hickman,” Carson said. “There is always a lot of emotion in the rivalry, and anything can happen.”
The Lady Bruins are an experienced team with 14 out of 20 of the varsity players being upperclassmen. “Most of the upperclassmen have been through a few playoff runs now,” Drewing said, ‘They know what to expect and can assist the less experienced players with dealing with the differences of playoff soccer.”
Many of the younger players look up to the veterans and seek guidance and advice. “The upperclassmen generally have more experience than me because of age,” sophomore defender Ronni Farid said. “I respect their intuition. They have helped me be much more confident.”
The players are keeping an eye on their prize and look to return the district trophy back to the hallways of RBHS beginning May 19 on the road in Blue Springs.
“By playing the way we have been, and playing a full game to our maximum potential,” Carson said. “We should be able to do very well.”
If the Bruins retain their crown as the queens of the district, they will move on to compete in the state sectionals beginning May 27.
By: John Flanegin
