Bailey returns to the Lady Panthers soccer field

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By Jason Arndt
Staff Writer

After a difficult 2015 campaign, the Lady Panther kickers are hoping this year’s early-season success is a sign of sustained improvement.

Wilmot Union High School returns nine starters, including captains Stephanie Sanderson and McKenna Stanek, from a team that finished 5-10-5 (1-5-1 Southern Lakes Conference).

The Lady Panthers had their season end in the first round of the WIAA Division 2 regional against Waterford, who finished second in conference last year at 7-2.

Wilmot coach John Watson is counting on the on-field leadership of Sanderson, a senior midfielder, and Stanek, a junior defender.

“Stephanie Sanderson is the team leader and helps to organize everything from practice warm ups to game day dress to on field attitude,” Watson said. “Stanek is the center of the defense and is really the rock that keeps the team in games.”

Along with the two captains, last year’s leading scorer and sophomore Madison Bailey returns after losing half the season due to injury.

Bailey, SLC honorable mention last year, was the decisive scorer in the Panthers’ 1-0 win at East Troy April 12.

“Madison Bailey was our scoring leader last season and missed half of the season with an injury,” Watson said. “Our hope is for her to stay healthy and have a fun season.”

Bailey continued her string of success, netting two goals in the Lady Panthers’ 4-0 shutout of visiting Kenosha Christian Life April 16, where senior midfielder Anya Wank and newcomer Rachel Bixler knocked in a goal each.

Complementing the four returners are juniors Baylee Chappell (defender), Devin Coleman (defender), Kelsey Molitor (midfielder) and Deja Simpson (forward).

Simpson pitched in a goal against visiting Kenosha St. Joseph on April 14, where they came to a 1-1 deadlock.

“We have nine returning starters on the team, but only two of them are seniors,” Watson said. “So we still have a young varsity squad with good leadership and team balance.”


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