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CALEDONIA — Caledonia High School’s soccer tree continues to grow as another senior officially signed on to play at the next level Wednesday morning.
Defender/midfielder Gracie Francisco is next on the list for the Cavaliers, as Madeline Cowart signed with Blue Mountain Christian College a few weeks ago.
Francisco duly signed her National Letter of Intent to play for the University of Mississippi Girls’ School in Columbus.
The decision to stay in his hometown Golden Triangle and play for The W was an easy one for one of Caledonia’s senior leaders.
“I really like my coach over there, Katie[Lyles],” said Francisco. “I help her coach her U10s with her so she got to know her a little bit so she could visit her parents and sisters who are in high school. , wanted to stay in her hometown.”
Francisco has battled injuries during his Caledonian career, including one this year, and has unfortunately been sidelined from the field.
However, her influence remains with the Cavaliers and continues to grow as the senior season continues.
When she’s not healthy enough to play, she’s been mentally prepared during practice and on the sidelines during games.
Head coach Louis Alexander said, “Even an injury or an inability to train never wavered in her dedication and determination.” She didn’t and I’m sure she played as well as she would have liked, but her role is definitely still appreciated.”
Caledonian women’s football is in the midst of a great season so far and having a veteran presence and veteran leadership from Francisco has paid off.
When on the field, the Cavaliers’ leading left-back did a great job of creating chances on the field, sending crosses to help counter.
Additionally, her defense is excellent on the wing, preventing attackers from getting chances on goal and preventing anything going into the 18-yard box.
“I’m really excited,” said Francisco. “Even though it’s all already over, I’m really excited and nervous. I was still nervous, but I’m excited for everything to start.”
After finishing the 2022 season with 8 wins, 8 losses and 1 draw, the Ws conceded 23 goals in 16 games, averaging 1.53 goals per game, and avoided conceding goals during the season.
Compared to scoring more than four goals in a single attack, the plus-29 goal difference is a big part of the Owls’ overall success, and Francisco only helps solidify the back line.
While she is only the second Caledonian women’s footballer to publicly announce her commitment to college, Alexander hopes this season will bring even more commitments with the Cavaliers.
“I would be very surprised if we stop at two this year,” said Alexander. “We have great class seniors not only on the women’s side, but also on the men’s side, and some players who believe they can play at the next level.”
These announcements are yet to come, but Wednesday was the day Francisco’s teammates and family came together to celebrate.
After a spectacular win on Tuesday, Caledonia continued their winning streak on Wednesday night when they faced Itawamba Agricultural on the road.
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