Jeff Moeller, sports correspondent

Richmond Hill's Sydney Shaw approaches soccer with a simple, timeless adage that has been preached by coaches for years.

“Something I live by is you play how you practice,” said the Wildcats sophomore. “I have always been willing to put the work in to try to improve for myself, but most importantly my team. I also am the type of player that expects a lot of myself and any mistake seems like a big one.”

Her approach has helped her play a major role in Richmond Hill’s success this season. The Wildcats, who posted an overall 17-0 record and captured their fifth straight regional crown with a 10-0 slate. They will host Discovery in their opening-round playoff game Thursday.

Head coach Shawn Allen has been impressed with her play on both sides of the ball.

“She is a defender that has scored several goals,” said Allen. “She is an excellent left winger and an attacking threat by having a great shot and crosser of the ball.”

Shaw began playing soccer at age four, and she credits the constant support of her parents, Brian and Rebecca. She is one of five girls in her family, but the lone one who has taken the athletic route.

“My dad played in college, which encouraged me to want to do it,” said Shaw. “My parents have always been there to push me. It’s always funny to see how both of my parents are.”

Shaw has been appreciative of their sacrifices for her sport.

“Even though my mom never played soccer she has always been there to support me. She may not always feel like she does a lot, but seeing how she drove me two hours just to get to a practice three times a week showed me a lot. Being the 5th daughter out of 5 girls who have all played soccer, I am by far the most competitive.”

With her father’s background in the sport, Shaw has relied on his direction.

“After every game I look to my dad,” said Shaw. “He has given me advice not every player would want to hear, but only to help me grow. Whether it made me want to cry or smile I would not be the person or player I am today without him.”

Shaw began her soccer career in Ohio until her family moved to Seonia, Georgia when she was five. She played on various club teams and also on elementary school and the beginning of middle school teams.

Her family made the move to Richmond Hill when she was still in middle school, and she also began playing on the Tormenta club team.

Along with saying to her stringent practice habits, Shaw also knows her playing style can be effective.

“I see myself as a pretty physical player,” noted Shaw. “It shows because a lot of people don’t want to go against me all the time. I am someone who cares for my role on the field and off the field.”

Shaw also clearly shows her opponents her intentions.

“Most people know me because of my facial expressions,” said Shaw. “I don’t have the friendliest face according to the coaches and my teammates, but never let it fool you on how much I love the game and competition.”

Allen easily has recognized Shaw’s presence on the field.

“She has a positive attitude and has an excellent work ethic in practice and in games,” said Allen. “She always gives her best effort in practices and games.”

It didn’t take Shaw long to adjust to her new teammates. She has established a sense of confidence and chemistry.

“I feel the most comfortable playing with players like Ella Peterson, Kamryn Martinez, and Brooke Norris,” said Shaw. “Ella is one of the most reliable players I have seen. She is always there to get the kicks I make and score off of them. They are great people on and off the field which makes it easy to look up to them. I consider them teammates as well as sisters. I couldn’t imagine playing with anyone else.”

Shaw sees her team’s postseason run dependent on their trust and effort.

“Heading into the playoffs, it will depend on how much effort we put out,” said Shaw. “We have a strong team, but it matters how much we work individually as well because each of us rely on the others to do our part.