Abigail Chymal, front row, furthest left, smiles alongside the East time. Although the East lost 2-4 to the West, Chyma was grateful for the opportunity to represent South Tama at a state-wide event. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

DES MOINES — Recently graduated STC Senior Abigail Chyma ended her soccer career by representing the Trojans at the Iowa High School Soccer Coaches Association Senior Showcase. Chyma was nominated by Coach Morgan McFate, who spoke highly of Chyma after the event.

“Abigail has grown as a soccer player and leaves her heart on the field every time she plays. Abigail is a determined player and shuts down attacks in the back field, and does not stop when starting an offensive attack,” McFate said. “She has been a part of Trojan Soccer since middle school and has played in Marshalltown MASC in the past. Abigail deserved to go to the East/West senior showcase and probably was the best person to have a blast while she was there.”

The game was played on June 14 at Valley Stadium, immediately prior to a Des Moines Menace home game, with player recognition during halftime of the following game.

Experiencing the stadium atmosphere was a highlight of Chyma’s trip.

“I couldn’t believe it was a high school stadium because it was huge. That was the biggest crowd I’ve ever played soccer in front of,” she said.

With a thumbs-up and a smile, Abigail Chyma commemorates her time playing at Valley Stadium in Des Moines as a part of the Iowa High School Soccer Coaches Association Senior Showcase. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

In the all-star game, East is pitted against West with STC fitting in the East division. This year Chyma played Defender for the East team, which fell 4-2 to the West team. The East team was led by Head Coach Eric Schafer of Johnston High School.

Chyma was honored and surprised to be selected. The experience of playing with other elite high school athletes was an opportunity the recently graduated Trojan reveled in.

“I had some really good people on my team. It was fun to play with people who have been staying and who have experienced that level. What an honor,” she said.

Though her time playing soccer for STC is over, Chyma continues to utilize her love, passion, and talent for the sport by coaching rec soccer during the week. Her coaching has kept her busy and helped pass on a love of a sport that has given her so much.