Valparaiso freshman Emma Kurt has never had a problem playing between the pipes.

The Vikings' starting goalkeeper began playing soccer when she was 6 years old, and she generally found herself in net.

"No one else would volunteer, but I would," Kurt said. "I definitely liked playing there. I always wanted to be there.

"I just love the thrill of the moment and having to deal with all of the pressure."

Even though Kurt is now playing prep soccer, her situation hasn't changed. So far, she's risen to the challenge. She's made 34 saves in her victories and picked up six shutouts for the Times No. 6 Vikings (8-6-1).

Kurt was persistent about her drive to be a high school goalie, and that approach paid off in the preseason.

"When we had our information meeting, she immediately asked questions about goalie," Valparaiso coach Robert Cespedes said. "When we started conditioning, she kept showing interest in being a goalie.

"I didn't think about it much, but then we watched her play. She really knew the position and knew how to approach things in different ways."

And she definitely filled a need for the Vikings. Last year's original starting goalie, Sarah Fisher, was unable to play this season because she suffered a back injury. Marisa Matuska also played in net a year ago, but she also could be used up the field.

"There were times last year, where would've liked to have had another option," Cespedes said. "Goalie is a basic need, and it's great that Kurt was able to fill that spot for us."

At 6-foot, Kurt can cover a lot of space in the net.

"I love being able to get those high balls," she said. "When I dive, I'm able to stretch across a little bit further. That can be intimidating."

But it appears that Kurt hasn't been intimidated by her situation. Even though she is just a freshman, Kurt entered the high school with some established leadership skills.

Kurt is the second oldest of six siblings, and she has had to take charge at home.

"I have three younger sisters, and I have to help them out a lot," she said. "My parents are also great role models. These things have helped me become more comfortable on the field."

Cespedes is ecstatic that Kurt has three-plus prep seasons left, so she can continue to polish her skills.

"It's great to know that we will have her for four years," he said. "Emma has great potential. Our hope is to get her more training to further improve her skllls. She will be in the position to be more complete as a goalie and learn how to approach plays a little bit better."

GIRLS SOCCER

Times Top 10

(Last week's rankings in parentheses)

1. Highland (1)

2. Lake Central (2)

3. Griffith (3)

4. Crown Point (4)

5. Munster (5)

6. Valparaiso (9)

7. Kankakee Valley (8)

8. Chesterton (7)

9. Portage (6)

10. Boone Grove (10)