By Fred Griffin Jr.
East Ridge Girls Varsity Soccer Eyes District Crown
The East Ridge High School girls varsity soccer team enters district play having already overcome a season defined by adversity, resilience and growth.
The Lady Knights were tested early, losing senior captain Avery Post to a broken collarbone in the opening game of the season and freshman Sue Molero to a torn ACL during preseason. Despite those setbacks, the team remained focused and competitive, leaning on depth and a next-player-up mentality to stay in contention.
One of the youngest teams in the district, East Ridge features eight freshmen, four of whom — Zoe Barrantes, Ashlynn Franklin, Kailee Steenken and Jenessi Garcia — have become regular starters. Their ability to step into key roles helped stabilize the lineup and maintain momentum throughout the season.
That perseverance has paid off. The Lady Knights have earned a spot in the Class 7A District 5 Championship and will face the Windermere Wolverines on Tuesday, January 27, at East Ridge High School. Windermere is led by captains Sophia Suminski and Jordyn Burns.
Head coach Florez said the team’s mindset has been central to its postseason run.
“It doesn’t matter if you fall short,” he said. “It never is a failure going after your goals with everything you got.”
With kickoff set for 5 p.m., East Ridge will look to cap a challenging season with a district title, ready to leave everything on the field in pursuit of a championship.
Fred Griffin Jr. is a devoted husband, proud father of two daughters and a committed community leader who enjoys traveling. With more than two decades of experience supporting individuals with developmental and mental disabilities, he is deeply passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. He holds advanced credentials in Business Administration, a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Theology.
