Greenbrier, Lakeside get to top 10 in state soccer
Two local high school women's soccer teams have been practicing for the rigorous matches ahead when they play in the AAAA Georgia state playoffs this month.
Two of Columbia County's varsity women's teams - cross-town rivals Lakeside and Greenbrier high schools - are ranked in the top 10 in the state.
Lakeside currently holds an 11-4-1 overall record, while Greenbrier is 11-3-1.
As Region 3 AAAA champion, Lakeside holds the No. 1 seed for the playoffs, while Greenbrier, the 2003 champion, holds the No. 2 seed. Greenbrier also held the Region 3 AAAA title in 1998.
Other varsity women's teams in the top 10 this year are Heritage, Rockdale, Marist, Woodward, St. Pius, Forsyth Central, South Forsyth and Hardaway.
Lakeside coach Donny Rogers is optimistic that his ladies will do well this year.
"They placed third in the state last year and advanced to their first 'final four' in our program's history at Lakeside," Rogers said.
Last year, Lakeside lost 3-0 to the eventual state champions, Marist High School.
"We are preparing for playoffs this week with an abundance of fitness activities, and next week we play two strong teams to prepare us for the rigors of the state tournament," Rogers said, adding that he will miss his many senior players when the season is over but wishes them luck in their futures.
"They've been a great crew and have really made soccer fun," he said.
Lakeside and Greenbrier both proved themselves winning teams last week when they pummeled their opponents on the field.
Lakeside beat Evans 10-2, as the Lady Panthers also honored their senior players with a Senior Night halftime.
Greenbrier swept their game against Thomson on Thursday 15-0, and will hold their Senior Night today.
Lakeside plays Salem this week; Greenbrier plays Cross Creek.
Lakeside plays host to Greenbrier on Friday. Each team will then play host to first-round playoff games April 28.
The top four teams from each region will advance to the state playoffs continuing through May.