BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INEZ — A historical moment took center stage at the Kiwanis Club luncheon Thursday at Shufflin Café in Inez. Kiwanis members and school and county officials gathered to honor and motivate the Martin County High School girls soccer team before their first-round All “A” Classic state game Thursday night at West Carter.

The team, fresh off a landmark victory in the All “A” Classic 15th Region soccer championship, received accolades from the community leaders present. This was the school’s inaugural win in the championship, setting a precedent for the school’s sports legacy.

“These are history-making young ladies, and we are so proud of them,” remarked Kiwanis Club president Melissa Phelps. She further inspired the girls, saying, “Remember, girls, no matter what happens, you all are leaders. You have young girls looking up to you, saying, ‘I want to do that.’”

MCHS principal Brian Charles joined the commendation chorus, expressing the community’s overwhelming support.

“The entire community is proud of you. We’ve got your back,” Charles said. “Play hard, give it 110%. We love you and we’re proud of you. And I want to go to Louisville.”

Martin County Schools Superintendent Larry James noted the rarity of the accomplishment for a “small school.”

“This is an awesome, awesome accomplishment,” James said. “Let it all hang out tonight and make the best of it. Like Mr. Charles, I want to go to Louisville next week but win tonight first. Good luck. We will be cheering you on.”

Having dedicated 16 years to coaching the team, Steven Gauze got his first All “A” regional championship Sept. 9 when the Lady Cards reigned victorious over Prestonsburg 1-0 in the title game. He reminisced about the journey.

“We’ve been to the regional championships several times, but it never worked out,” Gauze recalled. “Honestly, I’m so proud of you guys. You guys work hard. Rain, heat, cold – you’re all on the field, regardless … and it’s paid off. Thank you guys.”

Martin County Judge/Executive Lon Lafferty expressed his pride in the team and what it means to the county to see our kids succeed.

Dwayne Sweeney, the Kiwanis guest speaker and president of the Martin County All-Sports Hall of Fame and Museum, also conveyed his hopes for the team’s success in the upcoming game.

Ahead of Thursday’s match, Martin County boasted an 11-2 season record and ranked fifth in the state for team scoring and 23rd for team defense. Several players also ranked highly in individual statistics.

In assists, Faith Caldwell ranked No. 1, Sophia McCoy No. 5, and Laura Hale No. 26. Addison Duncan ranked seventh in goalkeeper complete game shutouts. Among points leaders, Hale ranked 13th, McCoy 18th and Caldwell 25th.