"Mecha and the Lowell Girls Soccer to Team Set to Begin New Era" By Scotty Forrester, Freelance Reporter The Lowell girls’ soccer season has arrived, beginning with the Munster Jamboree on Saturday, August 16, before opening conference play against rival Hanover Central on the 19th at Lowell. One of the toughest and most talented players on this year’s roster is junior midfielder Ashley Mecha. After spending her first two seasons mostly in defense, she now takes on a larger role in the attack. Watching her on the pitch, there isn’t a challenge she isn’t willing to face. Wearing number 27, she is determined to do whatever it takes to help lead the Red Devils to success. Lowell has built a strong program in recent years under head coach Jessica Hayden, who is stepping down this season. Longtime assistant Danny Nestorovski will take over the program, giving the team some continuity as it transitions into a new era. Despite reaching the championship game multiple times, the Red Devils have fallen just short, losing several heartbreakers along the way. Ashley hopes to follow in the footsteps of her sister, Allison, who was one of the region’s top goal scorers during her four seasons at Lowell. Looking ahead to this year, Ashley stressed the importance of mindset and chemistry. “The first thing is dedication and teamwork to give us the best chance to win so we can reach our potential at the end of the season,” she said. “Our attitudes need to change. If we get down in a match, we can’t panic—we just need to keep working hard so we can turn things around. Sometimes we get into our own heads instead of just moving on, so mental toughness is something we’ll have to overcome in tough matches.” Injuries have become more common in soccer, making it one of the most physical sports being played today. Asked whether players should sometimes conserve energy instead of constantly risking their bodies, Ashley was clear in her answer. “My view is that our players should always give 100% from the beginning until the end of the season, making the other team adjust to our style of play. Every player knows their own limitations. If someone can’t go 100%, we’ll get a sub in until they can. Our captains do a great job keeping everyone accountable, so if you play on this team, you’d better be ready to give it your all every second you’re on the field.” Replacing standout goalkeeper Reagan Claus will be another challenge. Claus kept the Devils in countless matches throughout her career, coming up with big saves in pressure moments. Ashley acknowledged the difficulty in finding a replacement. “I really can’t answer that right now, but whoever it is has big shoes to fill. Reagan kept us in so many matches throughout her career. I’m sure whoever is in the net will perform at a high level just like keepers from past seasons. The key is being vocal, seeing the field, and helping us out. Reagan was always focused and guiding us. It’s not easy, so our defense has to step up and keep the ball out of the box.” When it comes to scouting opponents, Ashley explained that she prefers to let the other team adjust to Lowell’s style rather than overanalyze what the competition might do. “Sometimes I’ll look, but I’d rather have them adjust to what we’re trying to do instead of us worrying too much about them. By halftime, if you don’t know what’s going on, you’re not going to win. If we can play a solid first 40 minutes, we’ll have the advantage in the second half. A lot of teams don’t like early Saturday games, but I love them. I feel like it gives me and my team an advantage.” Reflecting on how much she has grown since her freshman year, Ashley emphasized the importance of honesty and preparation. “We just have to be honest with ourselves and learn from mistakes instead of thinking we know everything. If you think that way, you’ll get exposed. You have to prepare for every match, whether the opponent is good or bad. If they want to be physical, use your speed and go right by them. Some teams try to intimidate with physical play because they can’t keep up with quickness. When you have the advantage, don’t hesitate—use your strengths.” Freshmen are expected to play a role as well. With club soccer providing younger players opportunities to face tougher competition during the summer, newcomers are more prepared than ever. Ashley pointed out two first-year players to watch. “Two freshmen who will have a big impact are Emma Hamilton and Camille Joppek. They both hate to lose and played against tough competition in summer league matches. I’m excited to see what they’ll bring to the team this year.” As the season begins, the Red Devils face change and opportunity. With a strong junior leader in Ashley Mecha, talented freshmen stepping into the spotlight, and a familiar voice in new head coach Danny Nover, Lowell will once again look to compete with the best in the region. Whether this is finally the season they break through remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—the Devils won’t back down from the challenge.