Coaches across the Athens region have released their selections for the 2026 all‑area girls soccer team, honoring the players who helped define a season of milestones and memorable matches.
Championship Highlights
Jefferson made history by capturing its first GHSA Class 3A state title, edging Oconee County in a penalty shootout after a tightly contested final. North Oconee pushed deep into the Class 4A bracket before falling to Marist, while East Jackson reached the Class 2A quarterfinals before a loss to Union County. Westminster Christian reached the Class 2A finals for the fourth straight year, ultimately succumbing to Central Fellowship.
Standout Performers
The list is led by Zulma Valdivieso‑Gutierrez of Cedar Shoals, who was named Region 8‑5A Player of the Year after recording 50 goals and 10 assists. Reese Anderson from Jackson County earned Region Player of the Year honors with 26 goals, while Ava Rodriguez of Jefferson collected 22 goals and 12 assists to claim Midfielder of the Year. Samme Suppes set a Jefferson school record with 27 goals and earned First‑Team All‑Region recognition, and Faith Lawhead contributed 66 goals, also receiving All‑Region accolades. Joci Higginbothan of Athens Academy was named Co‑Offensive Region Player of the Year after scoring 20 goals, and Fulton Wiant added 14 goals for Athens Academy. Jennifer Tovar of Apalachee earned Second‑Team All‑Region honors.
Defensive Excellence
Between the posts, Lyla McMahan of Athens Christian kept opponents to just seven goals in region play, while Kinley Weber of Madison County logged more than 250 saves across 18 games. Mia Smith of Jefferson scored the Dragons’ only goal in the championship match, capping a season that also saw Ada Peeples of Madison County finish as the team’s leading scorer for two consecutive years.
The breadth of talent recognized reflects a vibrant soccer culture across the area, from Jefferson to Madison County, and sets a high bar for the next campaign. With players like Nolyn Herron of North Oconee, who finished her career with 71 goals, and Sydney Jackson of Oconee County earning a spot on the GACA All‑State Team, the future looks bright for Athens‑area girls soccer.