After going 15-4 and making it to the Class 4A state championship game last year, there were thoughts that this might be somewhat of a rebuilding year for the Hilldale boys’ soccer team. But thanks to the efforts of players like goalkeeper Cameron Stout, the Hornets are 9-2 on the season and have their sights set on another playoff run under coach Conner Schwab who talked about his goalie.

“I coached Cameron some in middle school and I think at that point he was about four foot five, but he’s really grown and is playing on a whole different level this year,” laughed Schwab. “He’s like a sponge in that he’s always training, always studying and trying to make himself better. This year he’s a lot more vocal and a better leader on the field.”

Stout says he didn’t start his soccer career in goal.

“Early on I was a midfielder but then in fifth grade I tried playing goalie in a scrimmage and found I really liked it. As a goalkeeper there’s a lot of pressure on you knowing you’re the last line of defense. I just try to stay composed and not let my emotions get the best of me because that’s when mistakes happen. I think the hardest part is communicating effectively with your back line,” said Stout who is also in the National Honor Society and Teens for Christ. His Hilldale soccer highlight occurred earlier this year. “We were in a shootout with Southeast earlier this year and I saved the winning penalty kick. Being able to celebrate with your teammates in that kind of situation was really special.”

Cameron cites his mom as being one of his biggest motivators.

“Everything I do is for her, and I just want to make her proud,” said Stout.

The Hornets only losses so far this season have been to a top Tennessee team on their spring break trip to Alabama and to Class 6A Stillwater, so Cameron Stout is optimistic about the rest of the season.

“Our guys have really stepped up so far this year and I think we could win state.”