Sikeston soocer targets top spot; championship season within reach

Sikeston coach Gabe Dement speaks with the team following practice on Friday, August 23.

Dennis Marshall ~ Standard-Democrat

SIKESTON — With a talented roster and drive to succeed, Sikeston aims to kick its game up a notch in 2024. 

The Bulldogs are coming off their best season since 2016, and it’s clear they’re poised to take another step forward. But the question is, can the Bulldogs make a championship run?

“Our players have really bonded through intense competition in practice, including several scrimmages that have gone into overtime during the few weeks of practice,” said Sikeston coach Gabe Dement. “They’ve learned to respect each other and trust each other in high-pressure situations.”

Sikeston’s Tristan Wiggins shoots during practice on Friday, August 23.

Dennis Marshall ~ Standard-Democrat

At the forefront of the Bulldogs’ attack is a dynamic trio of offensive stars: Tristan Wiggins, PJ Farmer, and Jaden Johnson. These players are among the most talented in the area and have the potential to carry the team to new heights.

Wiggins, a Division I prospect, is known for his speed and athleticism. The senior led the team in goals last season, scoring 27 total, while also contributing 13 assists. 

Wiggins’ ability to create scoring chances and finish with precision makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

Farmer, a Southeast Missouri State basketball commit, is another player with exceptional athleticism and talent. 

He scored 19 goals and added six assists last season, earning honorable mention all-district honors. The senior’s versatility and ability to score from anywhere on the field make him a valuable asset.

Johnson is a rising star who has already shown he can make a significant impact. Johnson played at a high level and contributed 15 goals and 14 assists last season as a freshman while earning all-district honors. 

Johnson’s skill, vision, and work ethic make him a key player for the team’s future beyond this season.

“Our biggest strengths will potentially be in the attack,” Dement said. “We’re excited about several players. Senior captains Wiggins, Will Sims, and Barrett Stokes will look to offer leadership in addition to prowess on the field. We will continue to expect big things from Farmer and Johnson and we’ve seen them connect well in the attack with freshman Keith Branson, who is very dynamic and experienced in high-level club soccer situations.”

The defense will be anchored by a solid backline led by Stokes in goal. Senior Chris Artis and sophomore Mauricio Bautista will form a formidable partnership at center back.

Artis, another standout athlete with size and speed, was an honorable mention selection on the all-conference team last season. He contributed one goal and two assists last season in limited offensive opportunities. 

Bautista, who will also serve as the kicker for the Bulldogs’ football team, is another key player in the defense.

Dement has been impressed with Artis and Bautista’s performance in training, and he believes they will be a strong presence in the backline, especially considering the team’s emphasis on defensive improvement this offseason.

The team is also experimenting with senior Jeremiah Wade at a new spot, left back, hoping to find the best fit for their defensive unit.

“We’ve seen good things out of [Wade] there,” Dement said. “It remains to be seen if we’ve improved on the defensive end and we will know more following the jamboree.”

Sikeston has all the ingredients for a breakout season, but as Dement said, it is difficult to gauge a team’s true potential until they face outside competition. 

The Bulldogs are eager to hit the field and take on all challenges, but only time will tell if the team can compete at the top of a perennially tough conference and district.

Sikeston will begin its season on Friday, August 30 at the Carbondale Invitational.