Thirteen Gilmer High soccer players earned all-region recognition.
Bobcat senior Camden Lyles and sophomore Talyn Curtis landed on the first team, as did Lady Cat sophomore Sophia Lykins. Securing an all-region second-team spot were senior Domingo Lucas-Velasquez and freshman Brayner Ortiz, while sophomore Faith Goodwin was voted to the second team for the Lady Cats.
Seven more players received an honorable mention and included Bobcats Jorge Flores, Noah Turner, Sebastian Lucas, Lleison Puac and Lady Cats Yenifer Lopez, Carly Becerra and Amayah Jones.
“I am glad to see that their play this year was recognized,” said Bobcat head coach Taylor Johnstone. “Gilmer County proved it is home to some of the best players in Region 7-3A and state. It is great knowing that six of eight players will be returning for the 2024 season.”
Team captain Lyles manned the midfield for the Bobcats and was there for four goals while distributing three assists. Curtis is now a two-time all-region player after making the second team as a freshman. He shared team MVP honors with Lyles and made 74 saves in 14 matches from his goalkeeper position.
Lykins proved to be a potent scorer and totaled 11 goals for the 5-6-1 Lady Cats. Goodwin also kept defenders on their heels and added four goals.
“Sophia was the captain of the team and is a natural leader. She is involved with many other activities outside of soccer while maintaining high levels of leadership and commitment on and off the field,” said head coach Adam Palmer.
“Faith was a starting forward this season, and she is a hard worker and a dependable teammate who is willing to play where it will best help the team.”
Johnstone referred to captain Lucas-Velasquez as an “invaluable defender,” and he was a four-year starter for the Bobcats. Ortiz scored five goals on the season and added three assists.
Flores and Puac both tallied three goals, Lucas scored one, as did defender Turner.
“This is the second year that we have had a freshman named to an all-region team,” Johnstone said. “We truly have a good talent pool here in Gilmer, and I believe in the future we will continue to see standout players. I also appreciate that the board of education spent some time to recognize these young men’s efforts at their meeting.”
Lopez finished her season with three goals while Jones and Becerra scored one apiece. The trio are all versatile players and will return for two more seasons.
“Carly and Yenifer both played every position but keeper this season. Yenifer was helpful in creating numerous counterattacks and scoring opportunities. Carly was a huge support in maintaining a strong attack,” said Palmer.
“Amayah played every position on the field and finished the season in goal. She has strong leadership potential and great athleticism. We look forward to all of these players returning next season.”