This month's player spotlight focuses on Delaney (Laney) Sullivan from Lander. Laney has been playing soccer since she was five, and currently plays for Lander Strikers, under Coach Scott Goetz and the 307 Select 2004 girls team under Coach Casey Nix.
Laney is a strong player and usually plays outside midfielder. She loves playing soccer and takes advantage of opportunities to do so whenever possible. She has guest played for several of our Wyoming clubs, including Gillette Edge, Rock Springs Avengers and Casper Blades. Laney also had the opportunity to attend a Colorado camp with a Laramie United team.
But, Laney's athletic ability goes beyond soccer. This past year, she placed first at all of her cross country meets, including conference. Laney runs the 100 m, the 400 m, the 4 X 100 and the 4 X 400 in track...this girl can run! She is also an avid swimmer and loves a good bike ride.
Laney is an animal lover and helps her family with their dog sitting business. She enjoys spending time with her friends - what teenager doesn't? - and she loves making new friends. Enjoying a slice of pizza, listening to music and hanging with her teammates are some of her favorite things. Oh, and did we mention, she loves shopping for vintage clothing? How cool is that?! Laney also enjoys traveling, so it is no wonder she is so active in competitive, traveling sports!
Coach Casey Nix describes Laney as a young lady who is truly able to compete with the ’04 team, even though she is one year younger...and she is a starter at that.
"Her innate talent on the ball, her insatiable desire to get better and physical skills were easy to see. Yet, it is her tenacity, and more importantly, mental side that makes her the competitor she is. We have a mantra within our team, it can be summed up as Warrior Spirit, and she is the embodiment of this. Laney is a true competitor, not happy with a bad result, one of the first to shoulder the burden of such, willing to speak up even when it may not be popular, and will work within the game to change it," says Coach Nix.
He continues to say that, "Laney makes her teammates better. Given her success and level of play within the Olympic Development Program, we would not be the team we are without her smile, her ability to push us to her level, and general leadership as a young person. Laney is what we strive for in all our teammates. I am honored to be at least a small part in her development as a player, and more importantly as a great young person."
We want to hear more about players like Delaney. Remember, the player spotlight can highlight achievement in any area, whether it's soccer, academics, community, or attitude. Please share your kids with us!
To nominate a player from your club for the Player Spotlight, please click here.Scroll down to the general section. Click "Player Spotlight Submission Form" and it will save to your computer. The form is very simple and should be emailed to wssa@wyomingsoccer.com.