Senior Grace Darrin anchors a stingy Panther defense, which scarcely allowed just over one goal per match last year on their way to an unbeaten run in league play.<\/p>\n
Harris, who also serves as assistant coach for the Dolores wrestling program, brings in a wealth of knowledge to the position. Having played soccer into college, Harris hopes to emulate some of the coaches that guided her playing career.<\/p>\n
\u201cI feel a sense of purpose with the opportunity to give back to young athletes and be a mentor to them,\u201d Harris said. \u201cMy coaches made a huge impact on me growing up, so I am excited to have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the youth of Montezuma County.\u201d<\/p>\n
As it\u2019s done for years, the program continues to blend students from Montezuma-Cortez and Dolores, allowing for the on-field chemistry to continue. Harris hopes the camaraderie developed will help the Panthers manage through the inevitable challenges that a long season presents.<\/p>\n
\u201cI want to see a group of girls with a positive attitude and exemplary sportsmanship, who keep their composure when faced with any sort of adversity,\u201d Harris said.<\/p>\n
After narrowly missing a big upset against Delta in the opening round of last year\u2019s 3A state tournament, the Panthers hope their next steps include advancing further in the postseason.<\/p>\n
To get there, Harris looks to her upperclassmen like Jensen, Mahler and Darrin to take on leadership roles that help provide steadying influences on the pitch.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey\u2019re coachable and get ready to work without complaint, and those are traits that all coaches can appreciate,\u201d Harris said.<\/p>\n