Cortez Girls Soccer's SHOCKING Comeback: Will They Crush Last Season's Record or Face Heartbreak?

CORTEZ – The Montezuma-Cortez High School (M-CHS) girls soccer team, buoyed by a promising roster, is gearing up for what they hope will be another standout season in the Intermountain League. After achieving their first home playoff game last year, the Panthers are looking to build on that success under the direction of third-year head coach Melody Harris.

Last season, M-CHS clinched nine victories, matching the 2023 team as one of the best in the program's history. Notably, almost 75% of the team's goals originated from underclassmen, signifying a youthful core that is set to return this year with ambitions of capturing their third league title in five seasons. Coach Harris has expressed her determination for the team to continue their upward trajectory.

Sophomore Mia Glazner, the Panthers’ leading scorer from the previous year, returns as a key player, capable of playing as both an attacking midfielder and a striker. Her teammate, classmate Kyndall Schmitt, also returns after a standout season on the basketball court. Together, they netted a combined 22 goals last season in their first year of varsity play, showcasing their potential as an offensive duo. Additionally, fellow Class of 2028 striker Emilynn Hill brings speed and agility to an already aggressive front line.

In the midfield, junior Kaybree Smith and sophomores Jordyn Erautt and Amani Lobato are expected to provide energy and control. Each of them gained valuable experience last season, and their contributions will be crucial in maintaining possession and dictating the pace of the game.

The Panthers’ back line is anchored by senior Camryn Oliver, with support from junior Ivy Gray and sophomore Sadie Maxwell. Freshman Raya Hall will add depth as part of the defensive unit, which is fronted by second-year starting goalkeeper Raegan Veach. Last season, M-CHS allowed just 16 goals, a statistic they aim to replicate or improve upon as they head into the new campaign.

The Panthers opened their season against Ridgway on March 17, where Schmitt and Hill contributed to an early 2-1 lead before ultimately falling 4-2. Despite the setback, the team remains optimistic about their upcoming match against Ridgway, scheduled for April 25.

In the meantime, M-CHS faces a challenging nonleague schedule, including a match against Durango on April 14 and games against Grand Junction and Grand Junction Central as they round out their regular season. This tough lineup is designed to prepare the Panthers for a postseason run, with a home game against Telluride set for Thursday, March 26, at 3 p.m.

The season will kick into high gear as M-CHS opens league play against the reigning Intermountain League champions, Alamosa, on April 3. The Panthers will also host Bayfield on April 7, marking the beginning of a stretch that includes five home matches. Senior Day is set for April 18, featuring a home finale against Pagosa Springs.

With a fresh influx of talent and a roster rich in underclassmen, the Montezuma-Cortez Panthers are not just building a team for today but laying the groundwork for a future filled with potential. The coming season promises excitement, teamwork, and the unyielding pursuit of excellence.