The Newcastle Racers girls soccer team saw great success as they began their 2023 season, winning five matches in a row before taking three losses.
The Racers were on a roll, beating Astec Charter School, Cleveland, Mount St. Mary, Duncan and Kingfisher, but then lost to Bethany, Chickasha and Harrah.
This, coaches Hannah Evans and Juan Lucas said, is a big change for the Newcastle High School program, and the early season win streak has never been done before. Two of their losses came from highly ranked District 4A-1 teams.
Both Bethany (No. 1) and Chickasha (No. 2) have 4-0 district records. Because of the losses, the Racers now have a 1-3 district record.
In the Harrah game on Thursday, the Racers lost 2-1. They play Cache and Ada this week. Both of these games are district contests, as well. They have one more regular season game with Madill.
Coaches said several everal players have stepped up for the Racers. They include junior Bentlee Lindsey. She is the Racers’ first line of defense as a midfielder, and maintains possession of the ball, while making good passes. The coaches said she is able to compete despite coming off an ACL injury.
Autumn Hites, a sophomore, is one of team’s centerbacks and defenders. She is brave, strong, and works hard, according to coaches.
Freshmen Bella Allen and Lexi Swetz are good players who play smart and work well together, coaches said, and are doing a good job.
Newcastle’s goal continues to be to make the playoffs and go deep. Coaches said, the Racer seniors have never made the playoffs, and that would be a big accomplishment.
