GALVESTON — Since taking over the Ball High girls soccer program four years ago, this has been the season Jeff Given has looked forward to. And he’s not alone.
Thirteen seniors, including nine starters, give the Lady Tornadoes a legitimate hope heading into this season — something that hasn’t been evident in many Ball High girls soccer teams since they joined District 24-5A.
“I really feel like we have a good chance to make the playoffs,” said senior Lauren Evers. “Out of all the years, this has been the year that I thought we could really do it.”
Given isn’t ready to pencil his Lady Tors into the Class 5A playoff bracket just yet. But after winning their first 24-5A game in years last season, the Ball High coach is confident his girls are ready to take the next level.
“Whatever that next level is for us,” Given said. “Maybe it’s winning two district games. Maybe it’s making the playoffs. I don’t know yet.
“I’ve never been one to guarantee wins or playoff appearances. But I think the district has taken notice. They know we aren’t a pushover anymore.”
Last season, the Lady Tors got off to a hot start in nondistrict play and carried that momentum into a district opening win over Alvin. Given said that was a monumental win for the program, but he pointed to another game later in district play which could have the biggest carry over effect this season.
“Losing 1-0 to Lake at their place was a defining point for us,” he said. “Year in and year out, they are a top team. Hanging with them on their field — it’s the best loss I’ve ever been a part of.”
Given credited his 13 seniors as big keys to the program’s turnaround. After years of being the doormat of 24-5A, the Lady Tors have maintained a positive attitude, and that is starting to carry down through the rest of the ranks.
“Confidence is at an all-time high,” Given said. “The seniors lead vocally and by their work ethic. They are a tremendous bunch and there is definitely a filter-down effect. The culture has absolutely changed.”
But will a changed culture at Kermit Courville Stadium be enough for Ball High to finally break through and become a factor in the 24-5A playoff race? Absolutely say the seniors.
“The team as a whole has been waiting for this year,” said senior Patty Gomez. “We have a whole lot of potential. We know that we can compete against the teams in our district. It’s not impossible anymore.”
