Rising Stars to Watch
The high school girls soccer landscape in the Eugene‑Springfield corridor is entering its most anticipated chapter yet, with defending champions Marist Catholic and the dominant North Eugene squad poised to anchor another fierce campaign.
What makes this year distinct is not just the pedigree of the title‑contenders but the depth of individual talent that has emerged across the region, from explosive forwards to lockdown defenders.
Delaney Antone, a sophomore forward from Thurston, burst onto the scene with a double‑digit goal tally and a playmaking instinct that earned her Class 5A second‑team all‑state honors, signaling a rapid ascent.
Payton Buschelman, already a three‑time first‑team all‑state selection, returns to lead North Eugene after a 17‑1 record‑setting season, bringing a blend of scoring prowess and creative passing that has become the team’s hallmark.
Libby McLaughlin, the record‑shattering senior striker, stands out for her unprecedented assist numbers and her ability to dictate tempo, positioning her as a focal point for any offensive scheme.
Other names stirring buzz include Camden DeWitt, whose sophomore surge earned first‑team all‑state recognition, and Zoe Dilts of Pleasant Hill, whose second‑team all‑state nod reflects a breakout campaign that carried her team to the playoff second round.
Midfield anchors such as Emma McCart and defensive stalwarts like Rosie Montes and Emma Pettersson add balance, while standout goalkeepers Macy Rush and emerging talents like Tori Sherman bring aerial flair and composure under pressure.
The Southwest Conference’s award circuit underscores the region’s competitiveness, with honors spread across attackers, midfielders and keepers, and the upcoming season promises fresh rivalries as these athletes vie for conference and state accolades.
Fans can expect a blend of technical skill, physicality and strategic nuance as the next generation of players looks to build on last year’s successes and write new chapters in Oregon high school soccer history.