Six Gilmer High soccer players were recognized for their superior play.
Earning an All-Region 7-3A first team nod was the senior Lady Cat duo of striker Yenifer Lopez and midfielder Sophia Lykins. For the Bobcats, goalkeeper Talyn Curtis and fellow senior forward Liam Engel were voted to the first team on the boys side.
Bobcat junior defensive back Brayner Ortiz was named to the second team, and senior Lady Cat goalkeeper Amayah Jones received an honorable mention.
Lopez ended her GHS career as the program’s most prolific scorer. She netted 31 goals and scored four goals in the state playoffs versus both Peach County and Bainbridge. Fellow captain Lykins was there for 24 assists and added six goals on the season.
While no individual statistics for Jones were available, she did help the Lady Cats earn seven shutouts, post a 12-6 record and reach the Elite Eight.
“They all deserved it,” said head coach Adam Palmer. “Yenifer had the most goals scored in region play. Sophia was a huge component in our success through region play to get us to state with her play in the midfield and leadership on and off the field. Amayah was clutch. She made some unbelievable saves ... even against Cherokee Bluff. She made some saves that allowed us to play as long as we did. She has no fear and is a phenomenal athlete.
“It was an honor to coach all these kids. They’re all moving on to bigger things with more responsibilities. I’m super proud of all three of them. They absolutely deserve this recognition.”
Curtis was in net for all of the Bobcats’ matches and made 90 saves while only giving up 10 goals during the regular season. GHS notched 10 shutouts on the year.
Engel was there for 15 goals, and he secured a trio of hat tricks. Ortiz was a versatile player who took the field at multiple positions and ended his campaign with eight goals and five assists.
“I am proud of the players, specifically these three from the season,” said head coach Taylor Johnstone. “Two of them are seniors, and we’re going to miss them next year.
“Liam scored 15 of our 52 goals this season. We’re obviously going to miss Talyn. I don’t think we’ve ever had that many shutouts in a season. I’m looking forward to seeing what Brayner can do next season. He’s been all-region for three years. Each of them played a crucial role in our success this season.”
The Bobcats made their way to the state playoff’s Elite Eight as well, and they were 14-4 on the season.