Two simple text messages from Excelsior Springs soccer coach Zac Ganzer awaited a pair of his players late last week.
“I texted at like 7:15 when they had first sent the teams out,” Ganzer said. “I said. ‘Hey I know you’re probably sleeping because you like to sleep in, but you’ll be happy to wake up early knowing you’re a first-team all-state player.’ I tried to be a little creative and give them something to be excited about because it’s well deserved. Those girls put in a ton of time in the weight room. That’s why they’re in the spot that they are. It’s exciting for me as a coach.”
Ganzer sent the congratulatory messages to senior Kelsey Mueller and Sophomore Josie Rimmer after the pair earned spots on the Missouri High School Soccer Coaches Association All-State Teams.
“I didn’t expect it at all,” Rimmer said. “When I got it I was really surprised and grateful that I had the chance and opportunity to get it.”
Mueller led the Tigers midfield this spring with 27 goals and 12 assists, both team highs. The gaudy offensive numbers also earned her regional Co-Offensive Player of the year honors and a spot on the first team list.
To read the rest of this story, see the Friday, June 17 issue of The Standard
-Bryce Mereness