WCHS girls soccer ready to reload

There’s a different level of belief building around the Warren County High School girls soccer program entering 2026.

After navigating the ups and downs of Todd Willmore’s first season back on the sidelines (a 7-7-2 finish), the Lady Pioneers now head into the offseason with experience, continuity and a roster capable of taking another step forward.

That climb toward 2026 officially begins Friday, May 22 when Warren County hosts tryouts for next season’s team from 10 a.m. until noon at the soccer field. Tryouts are open to girls in grades 9-12, and anybody needing more information can contact coach Todd Willmore at Willmoret@warrenschools.com.

"Looking forward to getting back on the field. We've been doing some spring conditioning and it's been fun to get them acclimated a little bit to what we'll be doing," said Willmore. "I think we have some solid kids in all classes.

The Lady Pioneers finished last season with a strong push, closing the regular season on a five-game unbeaten streak that included a 3-1 upset over previously unbeaten Soddy Daisy. Warren County also picked up wins over Riverdale, Cumberland County and Coffee County during Willmore’s return season while laying the groundwork for what could be an experienced roster this fall.

Much of the excitement centers around the return of several starters, notably Noelle Bratcher, Addison Steakley and Maci McBride. Bratcher scored nine goals and added seven assists while consistently creating scoring opportunities all over the field and Steakley - a former all-district honoree - is a plug-and-play type athlete who can excel anywhere. McBride is another all-district player who is returning that made a huge impact during last year's run of success.

Warren County was also expected to lean heavily on Chloe Wanamaker again after she led the team with 12 goals last year, but the senior’s status for soccer season is uncertain following a knee injury suffered during flag football season this spring. Even if Wanamaker is unable to return to the pitch this fall, her presence around the program could still carry major value for a young group continuing to establish itself under Willmore.

The Lady Pioneers, who graduated just four players last fall, are expected to return a number of starters and key reserves, giving Warren County a strong foundation as players compete for roster spots this week.