The West Plains Zizzers soccer team is banking on speed, chemistry and an experienced defense to fuel a deeper postseason run this fall.
Entering his second year, head coach Jimmy Miller returns eight varsity starters and 12 lettermen from a squad that finished 11-11 last season and reached the Class 3, District 1 semifinals. Six seniors are back to anchor the squad after the team graduated seven seniors last spring. That combination of experience and athleticism has Miller optimistic about what this year's group can achieve.
“By far, I think our biggest strength is team speed,” Miller said. “We're really fast all over the field.”
The speed isn't the only thing Miller likes about the roster. He also sees a group that has developed chemistry and is willing to play for one another rather than chase individual statistics.
“These guys seem to enjoy playing together; they're not selfish, they celebrate each other's success,” he said.
The Zizzers' attack will be driven by junior Hudson Cox, who earned all-state honors last season after leading the team with 14 goals. Junior Cameron Miller also returns after dishing out a team-best 10 assists.
Defensively, West Plains returns all four starters from last year's back line, anchored by senior captains Brooks Cobb and Cole Talburt. Seniors Malakai Coy and Caleb Cobb, along with junior David Bevel, will also play key roles in protecting a young, first-year starting goalkeeper.
While Miller praised the team's versatility and offseason work ethic, he emphasized the need for better on-field communication. He wants a relentless, fast and physical approach from the opening whistle.
The Zizzers will be tested early, with 14 matches scheduled in September alone. Despite the grueling pace, Miller expects his players to embrace the grind and be competitive in every outing.
“We're going to go in with a mindset to win every game,” Miller said. “I truly feel we'll be competitive in every game, and I think we'll improve upon last year's record if they reach that potential.”
Readers can find the full-length feature story, additional photos and season schedule in the Quill’s free 44-page Zizzer Fall Sports Preview Magazine. Copies will be available at area businesses and home games beginning Wednesday.
