Flynn Meyer Reflects on Soccer Career as She Advances to College Diving

Flynn Meyer, after four years as Lincoln-Way Central’s starting varsity goalkeeper, is transitioning from soccer to a diving career at Southern Illinois University. Her departure marks the end of an era filled with cherished memories and pride, especially after her final game—the most significant she has played.

“We battled until the end,” Meyer said, reflecting on the game. “All the seniors can be proud of our last game. We left everything on the field. I’m proud of us coming together and making it this far. I’ve never made it this far.” In her final match, Meyer made nine saves, holding Edwardsville scoreless for 100 minutes. However, the Tigers ultimately clinched the victory with a 3-1 penalty-kick win in the Class 3A Bloomington Supersectional.

Lincoln-Way Central’s defense, led by Ella Forystek, Jolie Kolosh, Aly Sudkamp, and Taylor Watt, put forth a commendable effort in front of Meyer. Jules Rafacz converted the lone successful penalty kick for their team.

Under the guidance of first-year coach Breanna Bembenek, the Knights’ season featured a second sectional title in five years and an unbeaten 8-0 run in the SouthWest Suburban Conference. “I’m happy with our season,” Meyer commented. “We were best friends off the field, and that chemistry carried us on the field, which got us this far.”

Genny Burroughs, a fellow senior, made three saves in the shootout that secured Edwardsville’s advance to state. Meyer was instrumental in pushing the game so far, making critical saves, including a diving stop with 8:30 left in regulation.

“Flynn was a leader for us,” Bembenek remarked. “Much of our success this year was because she was saving us constantly. In all our conference games, she allowed only one goal in eight games.”

In addition to soccer, Meyer, a three-sport athlete, competed in gymnastics and diving. Her future now focuses on diving, a sport she only began taking seriously this year. “These big moments in soccer, like this game, prepared me for diving,” Meyer stated. “Diving was always part-time for me. I’m eager to see where I can go when I focus on it full time.”

Though Meyer and several key seniors are leaving, Lincoln-Way Central’s future looks promising, with seven underclassmen, including Rafacz and a strong back line. “We’ve got to keep this going next season,” said Sudkamp, a junior defender. “We must be ready to put in the work again like this season.” Meyer remains their supporter. “It’s not about championships,” she concluded. “I build families in every sport I’m in. It’s building those relationships. That’s the best part.”