Emma Goetz commits to ASU to continue bright soccer career

Emma Goetz, third from left, signed her letter of intent to play soccer at the Division I level at Alabama State University. She was joined by her former teammates Annabell Nachazel, Kyleigh Balderston, and Whitney Hansen. The four all grew up in Lander, where they played soccer together. The three drove up from Cheyenne to surprise Goetz. (Casper College photo/Lisa S. Icenogle)

Emma Goetz has signed her letter of intent to continue her soccer career at Alabama State University in Montgomery, Alabama.

Goetz, a standout player from Lander, was a captain for the Lady Thunderbirds during her sophomore year. The sophomore received an All-Region Honorable Mention and was recognized with the Golden Boot Award, given to the player with the most goals and assists in a season. For the 2023 season, Goetz had nine goals, seven of which were game-winning goals and six assists.

According to Assistant Women’s Soccer Coach Jocelyn Norcross, Goetz played and started in all matches and was a key to the team’s successful 13-2-2 season.

“Emma is the type of person who shows up to practice early and leaves late, leaves her all on the field, and is all about the team’s success. She is a great student and well-rounded person,” said Norcross. “We can’t wait to see her success at the NCAA DI level. She will be greatly missed by us and her teammates and has really left her mark on our program,” Norcross added.

Under Head Coach Jodie Smith, the Alabama State University Lady Hornets went 2-12-3 overall for the 2023 season. The NCAA Division I Hornets play in the Southwestern Athletic Conference.

​