The Montgomery Advertiser has released its 2026 girls high school soccer all‑area teams, honoring the region’s most impactful players and coaches. The announcement celebrates a season marked by dramatic performances, record‑setting scoring and defensive mastery across multiple classifications.
Player of the Year: JK Longnecker Leads the Charge
JK Longnecker of Pike Road was named Player of the Year after a season in which she netted 41 goals and added 15 assists, propelling her squad to the third round of the Class 6A postseason. Her ability to find the net and create chances made her the focal point of a team that finished among the state’s elite.
Other first‑team standouts include Amelia Whittemore of Pike Road, who contributed 37 goals and 10 assists, and Amylia Rigdon from Marbury, who recorded 36 goals, 12 assists, 32 steals and 24 tackles. Natalie Barton of Saint James led her Class 4A team with 19 goals and 19 assists, earning a spot on the all‑state first team, while Jade Nguyen of Brewbaker Tech topped her team in scoring with 36 goals and secured a place on the Class 5A all‑state first team.
Coach of the Year: Maddie Holley’s Leadership at Brewbaker Tech
Maddie Holley of Brewbaker Tech was honored as Coach of the Year for guiding her team through a dominant campaign that featured 14 shutouts and a deep postseason run. Her defensive organization and strategic adjustments were cited as key factors in the team’s success.
Ellis O'Connor of Montgomery Catholic saw her season cut short by an ACL tear but still managed 10 goals, four assists and 27 steals before the injury. Hailey Kopp from Marbury contributed 87 steals and helped pilot 14 clean sheets, while Maddie Longpre anchored the defense for Montgomery Catholic with 10 steals and earned an honorable mention on the Class 4A all‑state team.
The full first‑team lineup also features players from Montgomery Academy, Prattville and Stanhope Elmore, reflecting the breadth of talent across the Montgomery area. The recognition underscores a vibrant soccer culture that continues to produce college‑ready athletes.