Sports Editor Matt Daniels interviewed Monticello coach David McDaniel before the Sages hosted a Class 1A regional game.
Your team is 20-3 before the postseason begins next Saturday, setting the school's single-season wins record. How fun was this season?
This season has been one to remember. Early in the season, we won the South Tournament as the smallest school. I think that's when the girls realized they could create something special this season. The energy during practice was contagious and allowed me to dig into the details and work on improving. We have a lot of respect for the teams in this area, and some have beaten us over the years. It's nice to be able to turn some of the same games into competitive games and turn some of the games into wins. Our hope is that this program continues to be a respected program in the region and that each player contributes along the way.
Why is this group successful?
Accountability is a big part of our season. We have a lot of upperclassmen with various levels of soccer experience, and we also have quite a few new players. Our leaders have integrated our new players well and many have taken big steps this year. Over half of the roster has scored goals and over half have also recorded assists.
What would it mean if this team won the program's first regional title since 2009?
It would mean a lot to win on home ground and move on from there. We have a very competitive region and we have a lot of respect for the teams in that region. Every team is 0-0, seeding and stats don't matter. Our focus is to leave everything to the field. I'm ready.