The Timpview women’s soccer team has many stars who play hard, aggressive, and smart. One of those many star players is Sophie Bateman. Bateman is a junior at Timpview High School, during the previous season she shined as a sophomore showing Timpview we had a future star in the making. However, just before the 2023-24 season, she tore her ACL (Anterior cruciate ligament) before she could show sports and Timpview fans what she was all about. Right now she is recovering well and cheering on the team from the sidelines at games and practices. The soccer team finished 3rd in their region showing that they can be one of the top contenders for the 5A state championship trophy.

Bateman’s unwavering passion for soccer was nurtured through her involvement with the Utah Celtic FC club. Despite her current absence from the field due to the ACL injury, her determination to rally behind her team in their pursuit of a state championship victory remains undiminished. Regularly attending practices and providing vocal encouragement from the bench during games, Bateman remains an integral part of the team’s spirit.

When asked about the team’s culture and how they clicked, Bateman spoke warmly, stating, ‘We’re like a family. Everyone loves each other, and we all respect each other. This team is really like a family.’ In an interview with Amaya Tollman, a close teammate of Bateman’s, we gained insight into her perspective on Bateman’s unwavering support despite her injury. Amaya expressed, ‘Sophie is like a sister to me. She wholeheartedly cheers on our team as we strive for the state championship.’

As Bateman embarks on her journey towards recovery, we extend our heartfelt wishes to her and the women’s soccer team for a successful season. As dedicated Timpview Thunderbird fans, we emphasize the importance of supporting all our athletes with respect and love, discouraging any form of online or in-person bullying or discrimination.