By Chandler Collins
Assistant Director for Strategic Communications


CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. – For senior Cayla Koerner, Soccer has always been at the forefront of her life. From the time she was four years old, Koerner decided she wanted to impact winning on the pitch and was inspired by key role models in her life. 
 
Fast forward to today, Koerner enters her final season in the Redhawks uniform in 2025. She has played in 47 total matches, making 36 starts over the past three seasons. She has scored 12 career goals, assisted on seven goals, and has 31 career points to her name. 
 
In 2022, she was named to the Ohio Valley Conference's All-Newcomer Team after scoring a career-high seven goals on 38 shots. She followed up the '22 campaign with another stellar performance in 2023, landing on the All-OVC Second Team in her sophomore campaign. 
 
From an early age, she was surrounded by remarkable role models who reached great heights in their respective sports, instilling in her a deep understanding of the dedication and sacrifices required to compete at a high level.
 
Their influence, coupled with the support of her family, has been instrumental in her development as a player and a person.
 
Following In Their Footsteps
Koerner's father and grandfather both played college football, with her grandfather, Chuck Koerner, playing at Southeast Missouri as a standout wide receiver from 1963-66. 
 
"I started playing soccer when I was four years old," she said. "I looked up to players who went on to play in college, and my own family inspired me. My dad and grandpa both played college football; their dedication, work ethic, and love for their sport pushed me to give my best every day."
 
The sacrifices made by Koerner's parents have been pivotal in her journey. They selflessly dedicated countless hours driving her to practices, games, and individual training sessions, always supporting her goals and pushing her to be her best. Their unwavering commitment fueled her ambition and played a significant role in her reaching the Division I level.
 
Koerner expresses her eternal gratitude for their sacrifices and credits them for shaping her into the player she is today.
 
More Than A Game
"Soccer has taught me discipline, resilience, and the value of being part of something bigger than myself," she added. "Now, as a rising senior, I'm grateful for the lessons the game has provided me."
 
Koerner's dedication to soccer and her growth as an athlete has been further enhanced by the strong sense of community and support at SEMO. 
 
She feels privileged to be part of a program that goes beyond the game itself, building a culture of positivity and forming lifelong friendships. At SEMO, she has found a place where she can thrive both as an athlete and as a person, surrounded by individuals who genuinely care and push each other to be their best.
 
"My favorite thing about SEMO is the strong sense of community and support," Koerner said. "From the administration, professors, coaches, and my teammates, it feels like a place where I can grow not just as an athlete but as a person. Surrounded by people who genuinely care and push each other to be their best is something I am proud to be a part of."
 
What Makes Her, Her
Koerner's admiration for basketball legend Michael Jordan further fuels her determination and work ethic. Inspired by his relentless pursuit of greatness, she strives to embody the same level of discipline and dedication on and off the field.
 
When asked 'If you could play another sport, what would it be?' Koerner answered "Basketball."  "I used to play in high school. I enjoyed the fast pace, competitiveness of the game, and the teamwork it requires to score."
 
Koerner recognizes the importance of attitude and effort, emphasizing the significance of being a team player and continuously learning and growing. Her commitment to these principles has been instrumental in her journey, helping her become the athlete and person she is today.
 
"What makes me, me is my willingness to work hard and keep learning," she said. "I have always been told you can control two things: attitude and effort. I am grateful for the support I have had from my family, coaches, and teammates. I believe that staying dedicated and being a team player helps me grow both on and off the field. You can never win a game without the team!"
 
Off the Field
Off the field, Koerner finds balance and relaxation in spending time with friends. It provides her with the opportunity to recharge and have fun, allowing her to return to the field with renewed energy and focus. This aspect of her life reminds her of the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance and enjoying the moments outside of soccer.
 
As Koerner continues her journey as a soccer athlete at SEMO, she remains grateful for the opportunities and experiences that the sport has provided her. Her dedication, resilience, and sense of community have shaped her into the person she is today, and she is committed to leaving a lasting impact both on and off the field.
 
A Story of Resilience
Throughout her career, Koerner and the Redhawks have faced several challenges throughout their matches. One most notably stood out to Cayla and came two seasons ago against SIUE in the 2023 Ohio Valley Conference Tournament. 

"One of my most memorable stories is winning against SIUE at their home field in a penalty kick shootout during freezing rain" said Koerner. "The conditions were brutal, but our team stayed focused and determined. That win showed me the power of perseverance and how important it is to stay united no matter the obstacles" 

Southeast Missouri Women's Soccer begins the 2025 campaign this Thursday, August 14, against Evansville in Cape Girardeau. Kickoff is slated for 6 p.m., CT. at Houck Field.