Glidewell emerges as potent goalscorer

Sophomore Aubrey Glidewell demands perfection when she is on the soccer field. Her impressive drive and determination has allowed her to thrive, even as a young player.

Last year Glidewell played on varsity as a freshman and scored four goals throughout the season. This year she’s scored that many in one game and recently broken the single-season scoring record.

“We played her in a different position, and she was in and out of the starting lineup a little bit,” girls soccer coach Carl Wiersema said. “This year, she started every game for us.”

Glidewell broke the previous goals record of 34 in Tuesday night’s 3-2 playoff win over Mansfield Timberview. Her 35th gave the Lady Raiders a lead early in the second half and her 36th broke a tie with five minutes remaining.

She has shined throughout the season, scoring in all but two of 19 games. The Rider soccer girls won the District 5-5A title and beat Lake Dallas in the first round of the playoffs.

Glidewell said she couldn’t do it without the help of her teammates.

“It means a lot to me because, not only will my name be out there, but I also have my team behind me,” she said.

After switching to a different position this year, Glidwell now plays as a forward rather than an attacking or outside midfielder.

“Being able to work up top, it is more like a team effort working up there,” she said. “Just finishing goals for our team after we worked hard together.”

Wiersema had high expectations for Glidewell after losing most of the Lady Raiders’ top scorers between last year to this year.

“I was hoping Aubrey would have a fun season, that she would stay injury free and that she would get better. She has exceeded all expectations,” he said.

Glidewell will get a chance to add to her record Friday when Rider plays Grapevine in the third round of the playoffs. Regardless of what happens, Wiersema is looking forward to coaching her the next two years.

“She is still a high school girl and sometimes when handling pressure, especially in the playoffs, she demands perfection every time she’s on the field,” Wiersema said. “ And sometimes that gets in her way. If she can just relax and have fun, sky’s the limit.”