Greencastle nets new girl's soccer coach

The Greencastle High School girl's soccer team will have a new coach when it hits the pitch next season.

However, it is an individual very familiar with soccer, as Connor Mack has been hired for the role.

Mack, who is a Plainfield High School graduate and English teacher at Plainfield Community Middle School, has coached at various levels, including middle school, high school and club soccer. He also serves as the Assistant Director of Coaching at Westside United and coaches the 2011 girls age group team. 

"I got into coaching because soccer has always been a big part of my life, but more than that, I enjoy working with young people and helping them grow into better versions of themselves. As a teacher, I have always been drawn to the developmental side of things -- building confidence, teaching lfie skills, helping teens learn how to work hard, handle adversity and be part of something bigger than themselves. Coaching gives me a chance to do all of these things, while also including my biggest passion -- soccer," Mack told The Putnam County Post. 

Mack inherits a team that went 8-10 last season and finished second in the Monon Athletic Conference at 5-2. The Tiger Cubs bring back talent in the shape of Penny Cummings, who scored nine goals and accounted for 27 total points, Brenna Humphrey, who scored eight goals and added 20 points, as well as Emily Hunsinger and Mikinley Cantonwine, who scored seven and six goals, respectively. Greencastle will have to replace Izzy Camara as goalkeeper. The senior accounted for four shutouts and 54 saves. 

Mack said the Tiger Cubs "really checked all of the boxes" for him.

"It is a school with a history of success, strong community support, a promising pipeline from the middle school level, and strong athletic facilities. I am excited about the opportunity to build on the program's success and elevate it to new heights," he said. 

As for what he has returning, Mack admits Greencastle returns a "high level of talent" and notes the Tiger Cubs will have a strong senior class. 

"They also have a talented incoming freshman group with players who are ready to compete and contribute right away. I also know the program is entering its second year competing in the Monon Athletic Conference and has a newly realigned sectional. One of our goals will be to establish ourselves in both and begun securing titles. Beyond the talent, I have heard great things about the character of the girls in the program, and that is what excites me most," Mack said. 

This will be the first head coaching job for Mack, who was an accomplished high school player. 

"Soccer has always been a huge part of my life, and I have a deep love for the game and everything that comes with it. I am excited to pass that on to my players and help them experience the same joy, growth and life lessons that soccer has given me. More than anything, I want to create an environment where players feel supported, challenged and motivated to grow. My goal is to help build a strong culture and develop players who are both confident and successful, not only on the field, but in everything they do," Mack said.