Gonzaga soccer a split-decision for Jones

Four years ago, Hillsboro High School soccer twins Cheyenne and Sheridan Jones made a split, although this time it didn't involve any passes between defenders. It meant that the two All-Metro League players would play their collegiate soccer apart. Sheridan headed north to Gonzaga and Cheyenne southeast to play at Boise State.

Sheridan, now a senior midfielder, attributes the decision to the desire to become "individuals," "build their own worlds" and break away from being grouped as "the twins."

Four years later they've accomplished just that. Both sisters have been mainstays in their respective programs, racking up honors and awards while providing competitive fire.

That competitive fire eased the transition for second-year head coach Amy Edwards last March, as she prepared to implement a new style, philosophy and culture to the program.

"She's competitive and she wants to win. So instead of fighting us on anything, she just jumped in and said, ‘What can I do to help us?'" Edwards said.

Her willingness has paid off, as the Zags improved their RPI last year by 60 spots from 175 to 115, with the goal to move into the top 75 at the forefront of the team's mind entering this season. Another goal looms large over Jones, her teammates and the head coach.

"Our long-term goal is definitely to try and get to the NCAA tournament. That has always been my dream, and this is my last chance since I am a senior," Jones said.

Jones will have her opportunity to lead the team there this fall, as she assumes one of the three captain spots, along with a starting midfielder position. Jones is excited to take on the role, but the player who her coach refers to as a "leader by example" wants to make sure that the title and role is inclusive throughout the team.

"We really want everyone to take initiative and be leaders on their own and we really want everyone to feel like they can be leaders. So, we put that expectation on each player, to step up and lead," Edwards said.

As a spark for her leadership and goals is a realization that all seniors have: It's her last chance. And what can she do to make that a memorable experience?

"Playing every game really hard and putting everything out there because it's my senior season, and you've got to play every game like it's your last, because you don't know if you will ever get the opportunity to play at this level again," Jones said. "You really have that pride that you build up over the years. You just really want to represent your school and want to play well for your team and your coaches."

Another feeling has set in for her second-year head coach, a feeling Edwards is trying desperately to bury.

"I honestly don't even want to think about that right now, because it's going to be a huge hole for us to fill. But, again, I'm thinking we have Sheridan, and we're great. We're going to hang on to her for as long as we can."

Heading into her final season, Jones has had time to contemplate the decision she and her sister made four years ago. While there is regret for choosing not to play alongside each other, like they had for years, building up what Jones calls an "excellent chemistry" and "connection" on the field, there is one thing that she would undeniably keep the same.

"Gonzaga's been a great fit for me and I'm really glad that I picked this school."