The Interlake Saints’ last line of defense is proficient at stopping opposing teams’ offenses on the soccer pitch.

Interlake Saints goalie Jordan Jenkins is one of the top players at her position in the 3A/2A KingCo Division.

“Jordan is an all-league keeper and plays at a high level. The defense is really a focal point of our team. This league (KingCo) is ridiculously tough and having her as a goalie is great because you know you can compete in every game,” Interlake head coach Justin Petersen said. “Even if other teams have more quality (players) in terms of skill levels, we can still make a game plan to compete with them.”

Petersen said his squad always gives it 100 percent effort in every practice and every game.

“We don’t always get the high-level club-type of players but we get those kids who just love the sport and love to compete. That physical toughness si a strength of ours and is definitely a positive,” Petersen said with pride.

Petersen is in his second season as the Saints’ head coach. He has also been an assistant coach with the Saints’ boys soccer program in the spring for the past 16 years.

“I had a stint as head coach of the girls team from 2002 to 2006 as well. I have been at Interlake forever and also have coached basketball for the past six or seven years,” Petersen said.

Petersen said the 2018 Saints roster is a great mix of upperclasswomen and youthful players. Senior defender Kat Zender anchors the defense. Other key players for the Saints include defender Bryanna Stevens-Harwood and midfielder Lise Arrouye.

“Our defense has a lot of seniors. We have a lot of experience and are a pretty skilled team,” he said.

Interlake Saints senior soccer players Jordan Jenkins, Phennah Reid, Bryanna Stevens-Harwood, Olivia Benson and Kat Zender are looking forward to their final season of high school soccer this fall. Photo courtesy of Justin Petersen