Kickin' It: Rylee Baisden

With the loss of several key veteran performers, including All-county players Kylie Bono, Courtney Garcia, and Lauren Kennedy, the 2009-10 season appeared destined to be one of reshuffling and rebuilding for the Esperanza Aztecs.

However, with the standout play of sophomore Rylee Baisden serving as a big catalyst, the Aztecs have turned a season of transition into one of ambition.

After missing last season because of and injury, Baisden was inserted into the starting line-up to start the season and has made an immediate and definitive impact, registering a team-high of 13 goals through the Aztecs first 17 matches, while helping the team to an undefeated start and first place in the tough Sunset League.

Recently, I talked to the talented forward about what she learned while sitting out last season, dealing with the spotlight of playing in a high profile program, and if playing another sport has helped her soccer development.

OCVARSITY: You were forced to sit out your freshman season with a fractured growth plate. Explain what it was like watching the team play and what was something that you learned?

BAISDEN: I was very frustrated that I was on the bench because I'm always on the go, but I learned that working together as a team is always the best thing.

OCVARSITY: Coming into this season, what were some goals that you set for yourself?

BAISDEN: Once I found out that I could score and got moved up to forward, I decided I want to try and beat the school record in goals, but I don't really know where I am with that.

OCVARSITY: What are some of the talents that you feel that you bring to the soccer field?

BAISDEN: I like playing with others and I don't like the game to be my show. I like experiencing victory as a team.

OCVARSITY: You are playing for a program that is considered to be one of the best in California and you have developed into one of the better players on that team. Does that spotlight bother you?

BAISDEN: No its fine with me because I don't really let it phase me. My dad tells me about some of the things that go on, but nothing really gets to my head and I just play my hardest.

OCVARSITY: You also play softball. Which sport is your favorite and are there any similarities between the two?

BAISDEN: I don't have a favorite. But I think that they both work well together because they keep me in shape and work different muscle groups. Hopefully, I can play both in college.