Friday, Jul. 11, 2008

Lady Texan Ready to Take Soccer Game to Next Level

By John English

Contributing Writer

Mallory McGilvray is serious about soccer.

A midfielder for both the D’Feeters club team and the Northwest Lady Texans soccer team, McGilvray has already made a verbal commitment to Arkansas State University and been offered a full scholarship.

The Northwest incoming senior said her goal for the summer is to work on her speed and getting back on defense. She said her objective for the school season in 2009 is to take on more of a leadership role at Northwest.

"I want to get into better shape and continue to develop for college," McGilvray said. "I chose Arkansas State because I like the coach a whole lot and there are two other girls from my club that are going there, too. I love it there."

Northwest wrapped up last season with a district record of 4-8-2 and tied for fifth place overall with Keller Central in the District 5-5A standings.

McGilvray said that while Northwest’s spring season was not especially bad in her opinion, she felt things could have gone a lot better.

"Last season, I thought we did OK," McGilvray said. "I don’t really think we stayed focused. Not everyone wanted to play all of the time, and I don’t think we were serious enough. ... I think this year, we’ll be a lot better."

McGilvray said she does believe that her team will be affected by district realignment as well. Northwest stays in District 5-5A, but doesn’t drop off on quality opponents.

"I think the district will be tougher, because we lost our two easy teams," McGilvray said.

McGilvray said her objective for the coming season is to be a good role model for her younger teammates.

"I want to be more of a leader," McGilvray said. "I just want to take charge and set a good example for my teammates to work hard and do their best all of the time."

McGilvray said that she is aware that her coaches will be expecting more of her in her senior year. She said she definitely thinks that will cause her to feel the pressure when it comes to leading the Lady Texans, possibly more than she will likely feel competing in club.

"I think there will be a lot more pressure on me in high school soccer," McGilvray said. "As I step into more of a leadership role, I think more will be expected of me."