Stewart has been named Female Prep Athlete of the Year by the News-Leader high school sports reporters. Shelby is #21 in this photo, with Melanie Allen, Holly Messick, Jessica Maerz & Kelsey Loderhose in the background, seen celebrating a late game-winner over Camdenton in April this year.

In addition to her skill, Stewart, a forward who will play soccer at Missouri State, also is known for her loyalty.

Upon entering high school, Stewart could have played four years of soccer had she chosen to attend Kickapoo, her neighborhood school. But Stewart decided to stay with her friends and go to Parkview, despite having to sit out a season because of a transfer rule. In doing so, Stewart chose a school with a less-established soccer program.

It wouldn’t be the last time Stewart, 18, would stay true to her friends when other options were out there.

Well done Shelby. I’m looking forward to covering your contributions to the Lady Bears for the next four years!