Coupeville Sports

Mary Milnes is one of five freshmen on this year’s Coupeville High School girls soccer team. (Photo by JohnsPhotos.net)

“I enjoy the speed of soccer, the game never slows down.”

Coupeville High School freshman Mary Milnes may play other sports — she competed in multiple events in middle school track and field — but life on the pitch has her heart.

“Soccer is my favorite sport; I have played since I was five and have never stopped since,” Milnes said.

Her journey through the beautiful game has taken her to a team in Colorado Springs, as well as squads on North, South and Central Whidbey.

Milnes has suited up with club teams North Whidbey Select, South Whidbey Select and Rush Pikes Peak, before landing her latest gig playing defender and midfielder for the Wolves.

Pulling on the CHS jersey gives her an opportunity to suit up with buddies from off the field, something she appreciates.

“One of my good friends – Katelin “Ratlin” McCormick — is on my high school team,” Milnes said. “She and I enjoy playing soccer together.”

Milnes, who enjoys reading and spending time with friends when she’s not kicking a soccer ball, hails the team aspect of the sport as one reason it appeals so much to her.

“As an athlete I enjoy being able to work on a team,” Milnes said. “For me, that is one of the best parts about soccer.”

No matter how many years she has put in on the pitch, the fab frosh is always looking to highlight her strengths while still tweaking certain aspects of her game.

“As an athlete I think one of my strengths is my experience with the game,” Milnes said. “I would like to work on my one-on-one defense.”

As she’s progressed in the game, the rising star has benefited from strong coaching, something she embraces.

“When I lived in Colorado I had a coach who constantly challenged me,” Milnes said. “She always encouraged me and my teammates to work harder and play better.

“She was a tough coach to have, but overall improved my soccer game.”

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