Maumee girls stand tough against rugged competition
- Jeremy Schneider
- Aug 30, 2024
- 2 min read
By JEREMY SCHNEIDER
MIRROR SPORTS
For Jeremiah McNutt and his Maumee girls soccer team, it’s not about where they start but where they end up.
The Panthers went 1-2 last week, picking up a 3-0 win against Rossford before losing road games at Notre Dame Academy (6-0) and Wapakoneta (2-0). Both of those teams finished last season ranked inside the top-10 in northwest Ohio.
With divisional realignment this year, Wapak is now in Division III with Maumee, while Notre Dame is in Division II.
“The main reason for scheduling tough games at the beginning of the season is to get ready for league play and tournament play,” McNutt said. “Bigger schools usually play at a much faster pace, something we see as we move on in the tournament. When you reach the district finals and beyond, the game gets faster and players get stronger. I don't want the players to be surprised when they see it. That's the reason I like playing bigger schools.
“Records are nice, but being prepared for the tournament is what we need.”
McNutt said he wasn’t disappointed with the two losses last week, saying his team showed improvement over last year’s results.
“They came out and played with very few substitutions due to injuries,” McNutt said. “Once we get through the next week we will be set for another run in the tournament.”
In the win over Northern Buckeye Conference rival Rossford, Miriam Findling, Evelyn Boyett and Charley Bischoff all had goals, and Ainsley Heckman had an assist.
“Balanced scoring is always what you're looking for,” McNutt said. “I would love for every player on the team to have at least one point at the end of the season. That shows teamwork and unselfishness.
“Our overall teamwork and work ethic with and without the ball stood out, that we are all working towards one goal.”
Photos courtesy of Pride of the Panthers
Reach IMA at insidemaumeeathletics@gmail.com
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