Hunter Crane has a state championship on his mind.

As a first-year coach for the Oxford High School girls soccer team, Crane has made changes to the program that he believes will lead to great success for the remainder of the season both on and off the field.

“The biggest thing that I wanted to change with the girls program was for it to be more unified,” Crane said. “Our motto for the season is ‘Better together,’ and we have talked about staying together and having more of a family atmosphere.”

Crane believes that the biggest strength of the team is the amount of upperclassmen present on the field.

“The biggest strength comes from our junior and senior leaders,” Crane said. “The juniors and seniors have all taken responsibility as leaders to make sure our team stays together. “

Crane has high expectations for the remainder of the season, including a state championship.

“Our goals haven’t changed from the start of the season,” Crane said. “We expect to be district champions and to advance in the playoffs and win a state championship.”

Crane is confident that these expectations will come to fruition in January.

“I believe that we are on the right path,” Crane said, “and I believe the girls have all the ability to make their goals a reality.”

His players have similar aspirations for the remainder of the season and are confident in their abilities.

“I think for our regular-season games, we definitely have a chance of winning them all,” said freshman Addie Thompson. “If we work hard and play like we know how to play, and if we can put that effort and hustle in the championship game, I think we can have a shot at winning state.”

Said sophomore Katelyn Rock, “I think we are going to do great. Every player has loads of talent and we work amazing together on and off the field.”