The 2026 girls soccer season in Robeson County concluded with a wave of accolades that highlighted both offensive firepower and defensive resilience.
Leading the charge, Jurielys Quinones of Red Springs was crowned Player of the Year after a season in which she netted 29 goals and added 14 assists, accounting for more than half of her team’s 49 goals.
Red Springs head coach Karina Zarate emphasized that the team’s strategy revolved around Quinones, a reliance that paid dividends throughout the campaign and even carried over from her sophomore year when she again topped the scoring charts.
Rising Stars and Defensive Excellence
Purnell Swett entered the season as the only girls soccer program in the county to finish with a winning record, finishing 10‑9‑1 and securing a berth in the state playoffs.
Freshman forward Johnna Sampson emerged as the Underclassman of the Year, contributing nine goals and seven assists while providing a spark that helped the Rams stay competitive.
Between the posts, Malexea Hardin earned Goalkeeper of the Year honors, posting an average of 1.82 goals allowed per game and recording eight shutouts, a testament to her steady improvement.
Coach Strickland, who guided Purnell Swett to the playoff appearance, was named Coach of the Year, underscoring the importance he places on player development and long‑term growth.
The All‑County team selections and honorable mentions rounded out the recognition, celebrating the depth of talent across the county’s programs.