For the past two seasons, the word “close” would be best used to describe the Liberty Christian girls' soccer team.

That’s because each of those seasons, the Eagles have been “close” to a Missouri Christian Schools Athletic Association (MCSAA) state championship, finishing second.

“Close” is not a word that sophomore central midfielder Emma Woodson said recently that she wants to hear anymore. Woodson said that the team aims to get over the hump in the 2026 season.

“Second is annoying because you’re so close but so far,” Woodson said. “We’re going to play some teams where we can score some goals and that’s always a lot of fun. I think this team’s goal has got to be (a state championship).”

Senior captain and winger Trina Scheltens agreed with her young teammate.

Even though the Eagles do possess a more youthful look, there is still enough leadership to teach the youngsters what it means to both play Liberty Christian soccer – and to win.

“Even though we have, basically, a new team, we have a lot of knowledge and these girls are going to be exciting because they’re ready to learn,” Scheltens said. “We’re going to be more defensive-minded this year, but I think with it (the talent the team possesses), we’re going to be motivated to attack and score.”

Coach Ken Dildine, who not only coached Liberty to a 12-5 finish last season but also led the program to an MCSAA state championship in 2023, the second in school history, said the team has plenty of talent.

With seven starters mixed in with some youth, it’s a core of talent that not only should have the team aiming for state contention this season, but for years to come, he said.

“The talent we’ve got coming up and what we have now, I’m looking well into the future of the program,” Dildine said. “We should be a real solid contender for whatever comes our way in our association.”

Dildine mentioned freshman Bristol Barron, who played on the right wing as an eighth grader as someone who should be emblematic of the team’s youthful look and, with time, will grow into a long-term talent on the pitch for Liberty.

“Our style of play is from the outside in, we spread the defense out and we cross it in for an easy touch,” Dildine said. “She has got a strong right foot and she’s got speed, too. She will be (a contributor).”

Dildine said that, along with its common MCSAA foes, Liberty will also take on a group of larger schools the likes of Elsberry, St. Clair, Veritas Christian and Wright City.

Liberty opens its season on March 16 when the team will host Crosspoint Christian at 4:30 p.m.