Four years, dozens of games, and countless goals later, our very own senior Kenna Walker is stepping into her last and final season with the Liberty Soccer Team. Kenna has been described as hardworking, a team player, and kind. While teammates admire her leadership, Coach Schmitt witnesses her impact firsthand. “This year, she’s taken on a new position, and she really embraced it. She’s aggressive on tackles and always goes head-on into plays.” For Kenna, one of the best parts of soccer has always been the bond she shares with her teammates. Having played the sport for more than thirteen years, she says, “it’s the connection on the field that keeps me motivated”. Even on difficult days, when she’s not having her best game, Kenna credits her teammates for pushing her to keep going and reminding her why she loves the sport.
Looking ahead, Kenna expressed optimism about how the season will unfold. “I think this season so far is going pretty well, making good connections, and I think we’ll go pretty far,” she said. For her school team, she holds down the center-back position, while at the club level, she switches things up, playing on the wing and in offense.
Her love for the sport began at a young age, thanks to her dad. “ My dad put me in it and I just fell in love with playing team sports and the people I played with,” Kenna shared. That early start quickly grew into a lasting passion that continues to shape her athletic journey. The game has not only challenged her on the field but also taught her the value of teamwork and perseverance. When asked what player inspires her, Kenna didn’t hesitate to mention her teammates, along with professional soccer star Trinity Rodman. “My teammates around me and someone I look up to is Trinity Rodman because I’ve learned so much from her and her family life,” she said. Her words highlight both her commitment to growing as a player and the importance she places on learning from those around her.
Even though she hasn’t mapped out every detail of her future, one thing is clear—soccer will remain a part of it. She hopes to continue her playing career in college while also studying nursing, a field that allows her to help others beyond the field. Whether chasing goals on the pitch or caring for patients, she’s stepping into the next chapter with both ambition and heart. For now, Kenna’s focus remains on giving her all this season, trusting that her hard work and passion for the game will guide her wherever soccer takes her next.
