First-year Copiah-Lincoln Community College soccer coach FrankSmith plans to build his team on defense. Smith’s first twosignees, Laura Waldrop of Brookhaven and Rich Scott of FranklinCounty, are sweepers who excel on defense.

Smith inherited a struggling program at Co-Lin. The Wolvesfinished winless in 16 games last season. The Lady Wolves wontwice.

“Rich is one of the most aggressive defenders I’ve seen in overtwo years,” said Smith. “We want him to play defense for us.”

Scott (5-10, 175) has been a 3-year starter at sweeper for theBulldogs. Coached by Andrew Diaz-Moreno, Franklin County’s boyshave secured the Division 7 Class 1A-2A-3A championship and arepreparing for the state playoffs which begin next week.

“I’m excited about playing for Co-Lin,” said Scott, the son ofBill and Kay Scott of Eddiceton. “It’s a very good opportunity forme to play college soccer.”

Scott is the only senior on Franklin County’s outstanding squad.He also plays golf at Franklin County.

Waldrop (5-2), is the daughter of Joey and Karen Waldrop. Shehas been a member of the Ole Brook varsity soccer team for 6 years.She maintains a 4.O GPA and plans to be a premed major atCo-Lin.

“Laura is very intelligent and she’s a great team player,” saidSmith. “She has the ability to use both feet. She also has greatskills and a great attitude.”

At BHS, Waldrop has earned defensive, scholastic andall-district awards during her career.

“I’m looking forward to playing college soccer,” said Waldrop.”It’s a great sport. I’m excited about playing for Co-Lin.”

Ole Brook soccer coach Kevin Bower said Waldrop was a valuablemember of his squad. “Laura has been an asset to our team for sixyears. She has played in every game the last two years. She’s ateam captain for us.”

Waldrop is one of two seniors on Bower’s Lady Panther squad.