Girls Soccer: Northeast Mississippi Rising Stars

There’s talent all over Northeast Mississippi. But a few players have separated themselves from the pack. These are the names earning attention across the state and even on the national stage. They aren’t just rising stars. They’re the ones setting the standard.

Anne Crotwell is a goal-scoring machine. The North Pontotoc forward, a member of the Class of 2026, made history last season as a junior. She scored 81 goals, breaking the MHSAA single-season record of 71 that stood for nearly a decade. Her 178 total points ranked second in the country. Crotwell is a three-time all-area pick and was named the 2025 North Mississippi All-Star Game MVP. A decorated multi-sport athlete and state champion powerlifter, she has committed to play for Arkansas State.

Melanie Holt, a Class of 2026 midfielder and forward, powers the offense at Itawamba AHS. Last season, she amassed 102 points with 40 goals and 22 assists, a total that ranked her third in Mississippi for assists. Known for her ambidextrous footwork and elite stamina, Holt lifts the level of everyone around her. She plays club ball for Tupelo FC and is one of the most complete players in the region.

Maggie Oxford, a Class of 2026 forward and midfielder, leads the line at Tupelo Christian Prep. A multi-sport star who also excels in volleyball, she was instrumental in helping her team reach the Class I State Championship match in 2024. Praised for her consistency and intelligence in big moments, Oxford plays club soccer for Tupelo FC and will join Crotwell as a future Arkansas State Red Wolf.

Rising Stars to Watch

Rozlynn Boyd, Tupelo, Class of 2028, forward
Maylee Johnson, Itawamba AHS, Class of 2027, midfielder
Sydney Wade, Itawamba AHS, Class of 2027, defender
Ashton Roper, Tupelo, Class of 2029, forward
Ava-ruth Smith, Oxford, Class of 2027
Ella Dendy, Itawamba AHS, Class of 2028, forward
Millie McKissick, Saltillo, Class of 2028, defender
Marlee Hill, Saltillo, Class of 2028, midfielder
Frances Lasky, Oxford, Class of 2028
Avery Holly, Saltillo, Class of 2029, forward and midfielder
Jillian Huckaby, Saltillo, Class of 2029, defender
Avery Dendy, Itawamba AHS, Class of 2027, forward
Elizabeth Riley, Itawamba AHS, Class of 2029, midfielder

Comment Below: Who are some other players we should keep an eye on this season?