The Montezuma-Cortez girls soccer team hopes to build on last season's 3-5-3 finish in the 3A Southwest League under first-year head coach Melody Harris. With several key players graduating, the team looks to rely on a blend of returning talent and young, emerging players to carry the program forward this year.
The Class of 2025 features an experienced roster, with senior players Jordlan Mahler, Emily Howell, Luna Moore, and Halee Kibel prepared to take on key roles this season. Additionally, a strong group of underclassmen will have the opportunity to gain valuable playing experience this year.
Mahler is eager to pick up where she left off after an ACL injury that sidelined her for last season. As the team’s leading scorer two seasons ago, Mahler is poised to play a key role in the Panthers' offense this year.
“Jordlan is a natural leader with her energy, skill level, and her personality. She’s really kind to her teammates, but she has high expectations for them and for herself,” Harris said. “She really has been pushing herself coming back from an ACL injury and wants to make the most of her senior year and encourage the younger players too.”
Howell is set to be at the forefront of the offense. As a key playmaker in midfield, Howell has been essential in creating offensive opportunities for M-CHS. Having led the team in assists for the past two seasons, her ability to control the game's pace will be critical to keeping the team competitive in the league. Harris said that with the talent joining this season, the team is planning to have a strong midfield, providing Howell with additional support.
Luna Moore, who excels in multiple roles as a midfielder, defender, and striker, led the team in assists last year and ranked third in goals behind the seniors. Moore aims to combine her versatility with Mahler’s offensive prowess to strengthen the Panthers' attack.
On the defensive end, Halee Kibel will also play a key role, having earned 23 steals last season to help prevent opponents from scoring.
Harris begins her second season with the Panthers, building on a successful 2024 campaign. She is determined to continue her efforts to establish M-CHS as a Southwest soccer powerhouse.
“I’m really excited for the talent level to continue to grow and the girls who are returning from last year are looking better,” Harris said about the athlete’s growth. “I think also seeing the possibilities we have with this group of girls and what we’re going to have the next couple of years is encouraging.”
The Panthers' 2025 season kicks off on March 8 with a home game against Del Norte, followed by a match against Ridgway on March 11. The team will be on the road, starting with games at Atlas Preparatory School on March 14, Rye on March 15, and Telluride on March 27. The Panthers are aiming for a postseason run beginning on May 8, and the state championships set for May 20.
