As the Tennessee high school soccer season kicks off, fans are invited to participate in an exciting poll to determine which athlete is poised to make the most significant impact on the field. This initiative by The Daily Herald aims to recognize the exceptional talent within the region's girls' soccer programs, following an earlier feature highlighting the top returning players for the 2026 season.
Several remarkable athletes have been nominated for this prestigious recognition. Ashlan Alexander, a sophomore from Battle Creek, earned a spot on The Daily Herald's All-Area team last season, demonstrating her prowess by leading the Grizzlies with an impressive 24 goals and 10 assists as an attacking midfielder. Her teammate, Savannah Evans, a junior, was honored with a first-team selection in All-District 8-AA, having netted 17 goals and provided five assists, showcasing her consistent performance.
Marley Ayers, a junior from Columbia Academy, also received All-Area accolades for her contributions of 11 goals and 11 assists from the attacking midfield position. Sydney Bratton, a senior at Columbia Central, was not only an All-Area honoree but also named District 9-AAA Offensive Player of the Year, thanks to her 17 goals and six assists. A rising star, Emerson Massey, a freshman from Culleoka, made an immediate impact as an eighth grader, leading her team with 19 goals and five assists, earning an All-District 10-A selection.
Summer Riley, a senior from Summit and a Florida commit, was crowned The Daily Herald's 2025 Girls Soccer Player of the Year. She set a program record with 43 goals and added nine assists, also securing the District 10-AAA Player of the Year title. Rounding out the nominees is Ava Sweere, a senior goalkeeper from Summit and a King University commit. She was recognized as the district goalkeeper of the year for leading Summit to seven shutouts and only conceding 18 goals in 18 games, highlighting her crucial role in the team's defensive strength. Fans have until Thursday noon to cast their votes for these outstanding players.
The 2026 Tennessee high school soccer season is underway, and fans have the opportunity to vote for the top female player who they believe will be the most influential. The nominees, including accomplished athletes like Ashlan Alexander, Savannah Evans, Marley Ayers, Sydney Bratton, Emerson Massey, Summer Riley, and Ava Sweere, represent the best of high school soccer talent, with impressive statistics and accolades from previous seasons. This poll provides a platform for the community to acknowledge their achievements and anticipate their future performances.
