As the De Soto High School girl’s soccer season begins to wind down, so does senior Alex Schemmel’s high school soccer career.

While she will soon take her last steps on the high school field, she will be taking a different step up onto the college level playing field after graduation. The senior captain is used to the soccer world, having played for 14 years.

“I’ve played since I was 4 years old … but even before I could be on a team I was on the sidelines watching my older sisters play,” Schemmel said.

Although having spent all four years of high school on varsity, she didn’t exactly see herself in a leadership role as one of three captains.

“It’s been a transition from the last few years because I never saw myself as a leader, but once the season started it was great because that’s how the other girls began to see me,” Schemmel said. “Overall, the captain position has made a huge impact on my relationship with my teammates, and they know I’m always there for them on and off the field.”

According to Schemmel’s fellow teammate Maddy Mascareno, Schemmel has proved to be a solid leader for the team.

“She always makes sure we’re focused in practice and is very supportive on the field. She always has a positive attitude towards everything, and I like how she can give us constructive criticism but also give us compliments too,” Mascareno said.

Schemmel has taken away many good experiences from her last season as a Wildcat.

“My favorite thing about the season has been the energy and attitudes from the returners as well as underclassmen. It’s always fun to have that second family when soccer season starts,” Schemmel said.

Schemmel also scored her first goal of the season in a recent game versus Louisburg High School on May 1, as she is usually in the position of defender and sometimes as a midfielder.

While she will soon leave the DHS soccer field, she will not be walking away from the game. Schemmel has recently signed to play at Kansas City Community College.

“I signed to play at KCCC, and I am super excited. My family has always wanted me to play at the collegiate level, and I can’t wait to be playing with some fellow DHS alumni as well,” Schemmel said.

Schemmel, as well as the rest of the girls’ soccer seniors, will be honored for her hard work on Senior Night, which is May 7 versus Bonner Springs High School before the varsity game.