2008-09 Girls Soccer Player of the Year: Kelsey Wilson

On its way to a second consecutive CIF-SS Division I championship and first Southern California Regional title, the San Clemente girls soccer team was the beneficiary of a number of clutch performances and standout efforts.

However, no one stood out more than Tritons senior Kelsey Wilson.

Her play throughout the season was a testament to leadership, hard work and teamwork.

For her efforts, Wilson has been selected The Register's 2008-09 girls soccer player of the year.

"This award is so humbling and exciting for me," Wilson said. "I think that in my four years here, I've learned how to play high school soccer and that hard work is everything."

Wilson finished second on the team in goals (12) and had a team-high 11 assists. She won countless loose balls and consistently helped retain possessions with hustle and determination.

Wilson's play on the defensive end was just as noteworthy. She helped contain her opponent's top offensive threats with a hard-nosed attitude and mental toughness.

Wilson relished the opportunity to be a role model for her teammates.

"My biggest thing has been to lead by example on the field," she said. "Working hard to get the ball is contagious and everyone feeds off that."

One of her signature moments this season came during the Excalibur Tournament championship game against a talented Esperanza team. She managed to get just enough of her foot on a shot while surrounded by several defenders to score with less than 20 seconds remaining, giving San Clemente a 1-0 triumph.

Her high level of play helped catapult the Tritons to a share of the title in the tough South Coast League, and the Tritons went on to win the CIF-SS Division I title and the CIF Southern California Regional title.

Wilson, who will take her versatile play to Loyola Marymount next season, says playing on a tightly bonded team was a rewarding experience.

"Everyone on this team played for each other and I had never been on a team like that," she said.

Contact the writer: jeichelberger@ocregister.com