There’s unfinished business for the Columbia High School girls soccer squad in 2024.

While many teams would normally be satisfied with a 14-7-2 record, the Eagles were left with a sour taste in their mouths following a one-goal loss to Freeburg in last year’s regional final. 

Fortunately for Columbia, the program returns a deep lineup consisting of 17 juniors or seniors in 2024.

At the top of the list among returning Eagles is senior scoring leader Maddie Mauch. The McKendree University commit recorded 28 goals and 19 assists last season and has continued her scoring ways as Columbia has already posted wins this spring against the likes of Althoff, Collinsville and Marquette.

“Maddie will continue to play a big role,” Columbia head coach Jamey Bridges said.

The coach said he’s also “looking for great things” from junior midfielders Riley Mathews and Reese Woelfel this spring. Mathews, an Indiana State commit, finished with 11 goals and five assists last season. Woelfel, who has recovered from a torn ACL this past summer, recorded 15 goals and six assists last season.

Freshman newcomer Sarah Ross “will add a spark up top” this season, Bridges predicted. With four goals and four assists in her first four games played this spring, it looks like she already has. 

Columbia’s defense of Ava Schmidt, Avery Ellner, all-state hoopster Sam Schmuke and Emily Rose will be counted on to protect junior goalkeeper Jessica Bearley. 

In addition to a Monroe County rivalry showdown with Waterloo on the schedule for April 8, you can bet the Eagles have May 1 circled on their calendar  – that’s when Freeburg comes to town.