Chuckey-Doak’s Lady Knights took to the pitch Thursday evening for a preseason match against West Ridge, looking to build chemistry and improve conditioning ahead of the 2026 season. Unfortunately, the teams were unable to complete the contest after Mother Nature stormed through Lower Afton approximately 11 minutes into the match, forcing players and spectators to seek shelter. The match was ultimately suspended and will be completed next week.
The Lady Knights are looking to improve on last season’s 4-9-4 record, a year in which they relied heavily on a young roster that graduated seniors Addy Bradley, Cora Merrill, Hailey Williamson, and Sara Shirey-Wirt.
“We were very young last year,” head coach Anna Ricker said. “Everyone who saw us play knew that.”
With much of that youthful squad returning, Ricker believes the added confidence and experience will help the Lady Knights take a significant step forward this season.
“Strong play and leadership from Kennah Marshall and Lindsey Rojas will be important as we begin the year,” Ricker said. “Unfortunately, Betsie Ramirez is injured right now, but we’re hopeful she’ll be back by the Rocky Top Cup.”
Senior Remi Holter rounds out the team’s senior class, providing additional leadership and experience for a squad that blends veteran leadership with emerging talent.
Among the underclassmen expected to make a major impact are junior Kenley Merriam and sophomores Caitlin Larson and Serenity Roper.
Chuckey-Doak is scheduled to play three more preseason matches next week, hosting West Ridge on Monday before traveling to Unicoi County on Tuesday and Morristown West on Thursday. The Lady Knights will then open the regular season at the Rocky Top Cup in Gatlinburg, facing Forrest on Aug. 21 before taking on East Robertson and Stone Memorial on Aug. 22.
“We have to be the team that never gives up and fights for the entire 80 minutes,” Ricker said. “If we’re in great condition and can be the better team over the final 10 minutes, we can win a lot of games.”
