Classmate's Death Inspires Eastside

Before they stepped out on the field Monday night, the Eastside Lady Eagles talked a lot about how life can change in a fleeting moment.

Dealing with the sudden death of classmate Kaitlyn Haynes, who was killed in a wreck on Sunday, the Lady Eagles were determined not to let a moment pass them by.

"We still wanted to play, but we wanted to play like this was our last game," coach Andy Robinson said. "And, not take for granted things that we do. Nothing is given. You don't know what you have tomorrow. They just played their hearts out."

The Lady Eagles led Greenville, 1-0, after a fortunate goal. Greenville kicked the ball and it bounced off an Eastside player's back and in to the net with 12 minutes left to play in the half.

When the whistle blew, the girls joined hands and stood with their coaches for a moment of silence for Haynes, who was known for her smile and sweet persona, and for the Haynes family.

In a place where royal, gold and white is the expected game-day attire, the student body wore green. Green had been Haynes' favorite color. But once an eagle, always an eagle, the students cheered for their friends and classmates on the soccer field because that's what Haynes would have done.

With 12 minutes left in the second half, Paige Payne scored against Greenville bringing the score to 2-0.

The lady Red Raiders would fight to keep the ball and for a chance to hang on to the Upper State title, but the Lady Eagles would soar to a 2-0 victory.

The Lady Eagles will move on to play in the state championship game at 5 p.m. Friday at Gilbert High School.

"It's so rewarding to see this pay for a good group of girls," Robinson said. "I'm so glad to see them celebrating this win."

Robinson said the group of seniors on the team had brought leadership to the team, kept them centered and kept them motivated.

"The seniors have really stepped up," Robinson said. "Maylyn (Parsons), our keeper, gave a moving pep talk after practice and motivated them. This group is really team-oriented and they've had a great season, phenomenal season.

The girls will play Hilton Head Friday. Robinson describes Hilton Head's team as strong, fast and a seasoned team with most of their team back from the previous year. 

"We just want to have a good showing and represent the Upstate," Robinson said. "It's going to come down to who wants it most and who makes the fewest mistakes."