ROCKINGHAM — Two local high school student-athletes will play in one of the biggest summer showcase tournaments in the state this weekend.
Colbie Covington and Kaylea Peele, both of whom play soccer at Richmond Senior High School, were selected to play in the BodyArmor State Games.
The two Lady Raiders made the South Region team following a tryout period earlier this spring. The State Games are open to members of the 2027, 2028 and 2029 graduating classes.
Covington, a rising senior, and Peele, a rising sophomore, are both forward weapons who can play striker or outside midfielder.
“It’s a great opportunity for Colbie and Kaylea,” Chris Larsen, Richmond’s head coach, said. “The State Games provide a big platform for both girls to play at a high level and be seen by a lot of college coaches.
“Colbie and Kaylea are both fast and smart players, and I think they will benefit the South team,” he added. “I hope they’ll enjoy the experience and also learn a thing or two they can bring back with them to help our team.”
This past season for the Lady Raiders, Covington (7) and Peele (6) were the team’s top two goal scorers.
Following a restructuring of the State Games’ districts, the South Region team covers an area of 18 counties. Some of those counties include Cabarrus, Davie, Forsyth, Guilford, Rockingham, Surry and Stanly counties.
Coaching Covington and Peele, along with the rest of the South Region team, is Kristin Bethard (Oak Grove High School). Assistant coaches this year are Emily Ramon (Asheboro High School) and Heather Williams (Eastern Guilford High School).
It was through a match earlier this spring that brought Covington the idea of trying out.
“During our match against Asheboro this season, their coach (Ramon) suggested that KP (Peele) and I should try out for the team,” Covington explained.
“I’m looking forward to getting to play in the games and play in front of college coaches,” she added. “I hope to gain experience and skill that will help me. I think being able to get to play at a higher level of soccer will definitely do that.”
Peele, who is one of the younger players to make the South Region team’s roster, shared many of the same sentiments as Covington.
“I tried out for the State Games because I wanted to challenge myself and play against some of the best players in the state,” Peele explained. “Making the roster feels really exciting, and I’m grateful for the opportunity.
“I hope to learn from the other players and coaches and keep improving my game,” she continued. “I’m most looking forward to meeting new people and competing at a high level.”
All of this year’s matches will be played at the Armfield Athletic Center on the campus of Guilford College in Greensboro.
Below is the South team’s schedule for the round robin tournament, which will be followed by the medal matches:
Saturday, June 27 vs. North (8 a.m.)
Saturday, June 27 vs. West (6 p.m.)
Sunday, June 28 vs. East (2 p.m.)
