MOUNT VERNON, IN — Mt. Vernon High School is excited to welcome home one of its own as Natasha "Tasha" Schmitzer joins the Wildcat Girls Soccer program as Assistant Varsity Coach, working alongside Head Coach Amy Weber. A proud Mt. Vernon graduate and former standout player, Schmitzer returns to the program that helped shape her athletic journey with a passion for giving back to the school and community she has always called home. "I've always been a Wildcat," Schmitzer said. "This community and school gave so much to me, and coaching is an opportunity to give back while helping the next generation of student-athletes experience everything that made sports so meaningful in my life." Schmitzer's soccer career began at age six and quickly grew into a year-round passion. Throughout her playing career, she competed for Southwind Soccer Club, SWISA, Mt. Vernon High School, and later Oakland City University. As a Wildcat, Schmitzer was one of the most decorated players of her era. Her accomplishments included: • Four-year varsity letterwinner • Three-year team captain • 2004 Big 8 All-Conference selection • 2004 Gatorade Rookie of the Year • Golden Boot Award recipient for leading the team in goals and assists • 2007 Team MVP • 2008 Offensive MVP • 2008 Big 8 Academic All-Conference selection While her playing career provided countless memories and lifelong friendships, Schmitzer says her motivation for coaching comes from a desire to stay connected to the sport she loves and to positively impact young athletes. "Coaching is my way of teaching others the game that has meant so much to me," Schmitzer said. "Soccer taught me about teamwork, commitment, competitiveness, and relationships. I want our players to experience those same lessons while developing confidence in themselves and pride in representing Mt. Vernon." Schmitzer has previously coached youth soccer, basketball, and softball, but says soccer has always remained closest to her heart. She believes building strong relationships with student-athletes and emphasizing character, academics, and teamwork are essential components of a successful program. "Students come first," Schmitzer said. "Supporting their success in the classroom, helping them become great teammates, and teaching them how to represent themselves, their school, and their community the right way will always be priorities." Coach Weber and Schmitzer share a vision of continuing to build upon the strong foundation already established within the girls soccer program. Together, they hope to foster a competitive mindset, a commitment to excellence, and a deep sense of pride in wearing the maroon and gray. "We are thrilled to welcome Tasha back to Mt. Vernon," said Athletic Director Leigh Ann Latshaw. "She understands what it means to be a Wildcat because she lived it. Her passion for soccer, love for our community, and desire to invest in young people make her a tremendous addition to our coaching staff. We are excited for the impact she will have on our student-athletes and the future of our girl's soccer program." For Schmitzer, the opportunity is both exciting and deeply personal. "I'm looking forward to being back on my home field," she said. "I want our players to continue growing their love for the game, competing at a high level, and showing our community what Mt. Vernon Girls Soccer is capable of. The support of our parents, fans, and community means so much, and I can't wait to be part of continuing that tradition." Schmitzer believes the future is bright for Wildcat Girls Soccer and is eager to help build upon the culture and standards already established within the program. "I hope to help our players develop a competitive mindset, pride in being a Wildcat, and a commitment to representing Mt. Vernon in a competitive and respectable manner," Schmitzer said. "This community has always rallied behind its teams, and I look forward to helping continue that tradition while giving back to the place that has always meant so much to me." Please join us in welcoming Coach Natasha Schmitzer back to Mt. Vernon High School and the Wildcat family!