Hailey
As the 2025 soccer season approaches, the Emporia State Hornets are building strong expectations with their forward lineup. The team will bring back four returning players with starting experience, while also welcoming two new freshmen to strengthen the attacking side.
This mix of experienced players and fresh talent gives the Hornets a solid chance to perform well in both exhibition matches and the upcoming regular season.
The Hornets’ forward line is a balance of skill, experience, and potential. From sophomores who have already scored in key matches to new faces from Kansas and England, the forward unit is ready to make an impact.
Key Returning Forwards
Megyn Mahloch – A Rising Star
One of the top returning players for Emporia State is Megyn Mahloch, who was impressive as a freshman last season. She scored three goals and provided one assist in 15 matches, starting 10 of them. As the leading returning goal scorer, Mahloch is expected to be one of the main attacking threats this season.
Megan Kephart – Reliable Contributor
Another key player is Megan Kephart, who managed to score one goal and record one assist in her freshman year. She played in 17 matches, with three starts, showing that she can provide valuable minutes and step up when needed.
Sade Lee – Senior Leadership
The Hornets also have senior forward Sade Lee, who joined Emporia State after transferring from Pellissippi State CC. In her first year with the Hornets, she provided two assists and started 13 matches out of 17. With her experience, Lee will play a key role not only as a player but also as a leader for younger teammates.
Avery Zimmerman – Consistent Performer
Avery Zimmerman is another important name on the roster. She scored her first career goal against Central Oklahoma and appeared in all 17 matches last season, with 11 starts. Her consistency and work rate will be vital to the team’s attacking success.
New Additions – Freshman Talent
The Hornets have added two new forwards to their roster this year:
- Kyleigh Wilson, a freshman from Olathe West High School in Kansas.
- Amy Paver, a freshman from Epsom, England, bringing international experience and fresh skills to the team.
Both newcomers will add depth and competition to the forward group, giving the coach more options for different match situations.
Forward Line Composition
The Hornets’ forward lineup has a unique structure:
- 1 Senior (Sade Lee)
- 0 Juniors
- 3 Sophomores (Zimmerman, Kephart, Mahloch)
- 2 Freshmen (Wilson, Paver)
Out of the six forwards, five began their careers at Emporia State, showing the team’s strong player development program.
Geographically, the lineup includes four players from Kansas, one from Tennessee, and one from England, highlighting the Hornets’ mix of local and international talent.
Upcoming Matches
- Exhibition Match: Sunday, August 17, 2025 – Butler CC in El Dorado, Kansas at 7:30 PM
- Regular Season Opener: Thursday, September 4, 2025 – Drury University in Springfield, Missouri
These games will give the Hornets a chance to test their forward line and prepare for a challenging season ahead.
| Jersey # | Player Name | Position | Height | Year | Hometown | Previous School |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | Avery Zimmerman | Forward | 5-1 | So. | Topeka, KS | Topeka HS |
| 9 | Megan Kephart | Forward | 5-8 | So. | Lenexa, KS | Mill Valley HS |
| 13 | Sade Lee | Forward | 5-2 | Sr. | Oak Ridge, TN | Pellissippi State CC |
| 14 | Kyleigh Wilson | Forward | 5-3 | Fr. | Olathe, KS | Olathe West HS |
| 15 | Amy Paver | Forward | 5-8 | Fr. | Epsom, England | Blenheim HS |
| 17 | Megyn Mahloch | Forward | 5-3 | So. | Overland Park, KS | Blue Valley HS |
The Emporia State Hornets are entering the 2025 soccer season with a forward line full of talent and energy. With experienced sophomores, a reliable senior, and promising new freshmen, the team has a strong mix of players who can contribute in different ways.
The combination of local Kansas athletes, transfer experience, and international talent gives the Hornets the tools to succeed.
As the season begins, all eyes will be on this forward group to deliver goals, create scoring chances, and help the Hornets push for success in both conference and non-conference matches.
Fans can expect a season full of energy, teamwork, and exciting soccer moments from this dynamic forward lineup.