The one-on-one breakaway. The field opens wide, the last defender falls behind, and it's just the goalkeeper — reading, reacting, waiting. Dordt senior Lydia Zylstra knows that moment well. For her, it's equal parts chaos and clarity.

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"A lot of pressure comes with being the last person," Zylstra said. "But I like to look at it as a challenge — trying to read the attacker's body language and make the best decision I can."

Zylstra has helped anchor the Defender defense throughout her senior campaign. She is accustomed to the pressure filled moments but admits that some are tougher than others. "Penalty kicks are probably the hardest," she says.

"They try to trick you with their eyes, and you have to trust what you see — the hips, the touch, the approach. You react in a split second."

A native of Pella, Iowa, Zylstra arrived at Dordt after considering multiple institutions. Her decision ultimately came down to people and purpose.

"The girls on the Dordt soccer team were so welcoming," she said. "And Dordt felt strong biblically. It wasn't just talked about in class — it was lived out in every part of campus life."

That faith foundation has guided her through four years that included a coaching transition, an evolving role, and plenty of lessons in leadership. Originally recruited by former coach Alex Durbin, Zylstra experienced a year of uncertainty when the program shifted direction. She credits assistant coach Kara Lewis for helping the team stay grounded during the change and new head coach Payton Chitwood for quickly earning the team's trust.

"Coach Payton came in with a lot of compassion and intentionality," Zylstra said. "He's helped everyone understand their role and play with confidence."

Confidence is something Zylstra has grown into herself. She arrived as the fourth-string goalkeeper and has since earned the starting job — an arc that has shaped her approach to mentoring younger teammates. "I try to remember what it felt like as a freshman," she said. "Now I get to encourage the goalkeepers under me and give them tips during practice. It's been fun to grow into that leadership role."

A kinesiology major, she has already been accepted into the physical therapy program at St. Ambrose University in Davenport. "I love the variety and personal connections that come with working in a small clinic," she said. "I grew up in a small town, and that sense of community feels like home."

Looking back on her Dordt experience, Zylstra says the growth she's seen in herself extends beyond soccer. "I've gained a lot of confidence and compassion," she reflected. "Christ has worked on my heart to be more like Him — in my words, actions, and the way I treat people every day."

Her advice to high school students: "Dive into what you're passionate about and trust where God is leading you. It doesn't have to feel perfect — just follow the peace that comes with saying yes to where He's calling you."