Kenwood Girls Soccer Salutes the Troops

Kenwood’s girls soccer team posted its fourth straight win Thursday with a 7-0 shutout against visiting Pikesville at Michael J. Collins Stadium in Essex.

However, as far as the team was concerned the big winners on Thursday were U.S. soldiers. The contest was designated as  with proceeds of wristbands and baked goods sold at the game going to benefit The Wounded Warriors Project.

“It’s just the team’s way of saving thank you to those who served and protected our country,” said Nikki Gilliam, the mother of Kenwood player Brianna Gilliam’s mother. Nikki Gilliam helped sell baked goods during the game.

On the field, Brianna Gilliam led Kenwood’s effort with three goals raising her season total to 14. Jessica Eckloff returned from an ankle injury to score twice while Emjay Fletcher and Pam Critcher netted one goal each for (4-1).

Bluebirds coach Chris Mattern also praised the play of midfielder Allison Tarr, along with defenders Mercedes Butler, Amanda Hensler, and Alyssa Williams and goalie Katlynn Red. Red finished with three saves.

Kenwood athletics director Derek Maki said he hopes to have every sports team at the school participate in a community service projectsimilar to the girls' soccer team's fund-raising efforts on behalf of veterans.

“We want to get the student-athletes involved in their community,” Maki said. “It’s a way to give back. Playing in the game is just part of being a member of a sports team.”