Eagles camp strengthens Mavs on and off the pitch

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Mavericks girls soccer program recently returned from a three day soccer camp at Eastern Washington University. This experience provides players an opportunity to dip their toes into the water of college athletics and gauge their interest, Overland said.  

“This is our third year going, so we like to take a group of girls if we can get enough interest down there to get a little bit of the dorm experience,” she said. “It's a good bonding time for them and then get some drills in with the Eastern coaches and players, and kind of experience a little bit of what that's like.”

16 players attended the camp where they got to participate in drills run by collegiate coaches and scrimmages. Participating in these camps provides players a look at a college coaches perspective on the game while reinforcing what Overland teaches them, as well. 

Overland described this years’ experience as a special one, noting that the team made a lot of head way with team bonding and creating memorable experiences together.  

“Everyone had a great time. Lots of good bonding moments," she said. "Lots of great memories that I think the girls are going to cherish and take away from it. I really enjoyed this year at the camp." 

Seeing a strong turnout from the Mavericks players boosts Overlands optimism for the upcoming season, she said.  

“I am very excited about the upcoming season,” the coach said. “I think we have a great group of girls returning. I think we're bringing in a great group of freshmen that I've seen so far. A lot of girls that actually went to that Eastern camp were a solid group of freshmen that bring some bright personalities and leadership, I was excited to see that.” 

Overland is a former collegiate soccer player for the Washington State Cougars and former player at Moses Lake High School, then known as the Chiefs. She recalled going to ID camps growing up but not seeing many college camps like EWU hosted.  

“It's something I would have liked to have done. I did participate in other sports overnight camps that I really enjoyed, so if they provided it for soccer, I would have been all for it,” she said.  

The Moses Lake Girls’ Soccer Booster Club helps make the trip possible, Overland said. They pay for part of the camp, provide meals and fund shirts for the girls. Their support increases access so more players can attend. 

“We have an amazing booster club,” Overland said. “We have so much great support through our community and our athletes, and a great booster rep that helps manage these things for us. I'm very thankful for the support that we have and our booster club for making it happen.” 

    The Moses Lake Mavericks girls soccer players learn from Eastern Washington University soccer coaches at their three day camp.
  

    The Mavericks’ girls soccer players take a team photo after creating a list of commandments for their approach to the EWU soccer camp.
  

    The Moses Lake Mavs’ girls soccer players hang out between drills at the EWU soccer camp.
  

    The Mavs girls soccer players take the field for a scrimmage at the EWU soccer camp in July.