Kinsley Pesicka, a senior forward from Roosevelt, has been named the 2026 Gatorade girls soccer player of the year for South Dakota, a distinction that caps a season in which she dazzled opponents with 18 goals and 17 assists across 15 appearances.
A season that turned heads
Her contributions helped the Rough Riders finish the regular season with a 9‑2‑3 record and advance to the Class AA state tournament quarterfinals. The team’s success was built around Pesicka’s ability to find the back of the net while also creating chances for teammates.
Beyond the field
Pesicka’s excellence extended into the classroom, where she graduated as valedictorian with a weighted GPA of 4.18. She is an active member of the Roosevelt National Honor Society and the Cancer Awareness Club, and she devotes time each week to volunteer work.
Her community involvement includes coaching youth soccer, organizing food drives for Feeding South Dakota, and mentoring peers through the school’s Best Buddies program, illustrating a commitment that goes far beyond athletic performance.
Looking ahead to college
Next fall, Pesicka will join the USD Coyotes roster, bringing her proven scoring touch and playmaking vision to the collegiate level. The university’s soccer program, known for its competitive spirit, will benefit from her leadership and work ethic.
The award underscores not only her athletic prowess but also the values of dedication, academic rigor, and service that she embodies. As she moves into the next chapter, her story serves as an inspiration for young athletes across the region.