KHS soccer gets 1st win
SOPHOMORE REID WITT (30) scored Kingfisher’s first goal in a 4-2 victory against Verdigris at a tournament at OCS last weekend. [Photo by Chris Simon/www.simons-sports-photos.smugmug.com]
Right now, the record isn’t important to Kingfisher boys soccer coach Isaac Waltman.
It’s the improvement. The Jackets got to see that improvement and notch one in the win column during last weekend’s Oklahoma Christian School Saints Invitational in Edmond.
KHS got its first win of the season Friday when it knocked off Verdigris 4-2.
The Jackets were defeated 4-1 by OCS and 6-1 by Crossings Christian School on Saturday to take fourth place.
The loss to Crossings was the second to the Knights this season. Kingfisher’s 1-5 start also includes a loss to 4A Newcastle.
“We’ve had a really tough schedule leading to this point, but the guys have handled the adversity well,” Waltman said. “We knew we’re a good team and can hang with anyone in the state.”
Waltman is in his first year as the team’s head coach and is implementing a new style of play.
“That comes with a new game plan,” he said. “That adjustment has been difficult for some of the players, but I’m glad we’ve faced these issues and found solutions before district play has started.”
Among those leading the change are seniors Konner Baartman and Alan Muñoz.
Both were named to the all-tournament team.
Baartman had two assists while Muñoz had an assist and a goal in the Verdigris win.
Reid Witt got the Jackets on the scoreboard just five minutes into the game with a goal that Muñoz assisted.
Hayden Green followed that up 20 minutes later with a goal on an assist from Baartman.
The Muñoz goal came six minutes into the second half. Santiago Ortega set him up for the score.
Baartman got his second assist with 19 minutes to play on Xander Bolner’s goal.
Sophomore keeper Diego Muñoz had 11 saves in the win.
He picked up 20 combined saves on Saturday.
Green scored the Jackets’ goal on a free kick against OCS.
Witt scored the goal against Crossings on a penalty kick.
After playing more bigger schools this week, the Jackets begin District 3A-2 play next week.
“As we continue to eliminate the small mistakes we’ve had, we will keep getting better and better,” Waltman said.