Shelby Sheldrick is a difference maker on the soccer field, according to Lake Region varsity girls’ soccer head coach David Jaeger.

“Confident, aggressive, composed, driven; these words embody what it takes to make a difference on the soccer field. Confident in yourself and your play, the ability to step into any given situation and believe you will be successful. Aggressive: never backing down and always willing to attempt to win every ball. Composed: The ability to slow down in the run of play to make the right decision. Finally, driven: a never give-up attitude, one that helps her to improve every time she steps onto the field and challenges her teammates to match her work rate and desire to improve,” Coach Jaeger said. “To think at the beginning of the summer we were unsure if Shelby would be able to play, I can honestly say we would have been at a disadvantage this year (if she couldn’t play). Her ability to step into any position and play has served our team well.”

With injuries stacking up and a constantly changing starting 11, the ability to fill whatever gaps arose has allowed the Lakers to stay competitive with just about every team they played, especially scoring in a massive 1-1 tie with Yarmouth that very well may have sealed a playoff spot. Helping to lead that charge is Sheldrick.

“Shelby has showed a great amount of maturity this season, stepping into important positions and taking command of the game. As a sophomore, I am very excited for what the future holds for her soccer career,” the coach added. “With her current attitude and form, the sky is the limit!”

In recognition of her strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Shelby is this week’s Boosters and Hancock Lumber “Player of the Week.” Each week, a Lake Region athlete is recognized for his/her dedication (does more than what is asked), work ethic, coachability and academic good standing. Recipients receive a specially-designed t-shirt, sponsored by Hancock Lumber.

Name: Shelby Sheldrick

Year in School: Sophomore

Hometown: Sebago

Parents: Jessika and Dave Sheldrick

Sports you play: Soccer, basketball, lacrosse

School organizations: ASTRA, Environmental Club, Varsity Club

Q. Why did you choose to play soccer? I have been playing for so long and it is something that makes me happy.

Q. What is the most difficult part of the game? Not giving up even when we are having a bad game or losing.

Q. What do you enjoy the most about soccer? I enjoy the sport because I get to do something I love with the people I love.

Q. What do you feel you need to work on and why? I need to work on my leadership skills to help the team stay positive at all times.

Q. Why is teamwork important? In the game, you can’t rely on one person to make everything work. You need everyone to be involved.

Q. What is the biggest impact your coach(es) have had on you? They have always pushed me to be the best I can possibly be.

Q. How do you want people to view you as an athlete? I want people to respect me and see me as someone they can look up to.

Q. Ten years from now, when you look back on your high school sports career, what do you think you will remember most? All the memories I made and the amazing coaches and teammates I had.