By: Scott Nickerson
Elmore Autauga News
Former SEHS Soccer captain and goalkeeper Trent Wineberg impressed enough during the pre-season camp in his freshman year at Huntingdon, that he was named the starting keeper for the Hawks. It wasn’t an easy process.
“Pre-season was intense,” said Wineburg. “But I focused on showing up every day with the same consistent energy and intensity. I focused on controlling the aspects of the game that I could like communication, effort, and focus, and then the outcomes followed. I think showing up every day humble and ready to compete is what helped me standout.”
Wineburg was one of four goalkeepers on the Hawks’ roster, two of which were seniors. So earning the starting spot as a freshman was a big accomplishment.
“It’s a huge honor (to earn the starting spot as a freshman). I’m grateful for the opportunity and the trust my coaches and teammates have put in me. I know being a freshman starter comes with responsibility, so I just try to stay humble, keep working, and do my part for the team. None of it would be possible without the support from my teammates and coaches.”
In his first collegiate game for Huntingdon, the Hawks tied 3-3, but Wineburg had 10 saves, more than double the saves for the opposing goalie. In Huntingdon’s first win of the season, a 4-1 decision over Centenary (LA), Wineburg was credited with 14 saves. The freshman also had double digit saves, 10, in a 1-1 tie with LaGrange.
“The biggest difference between the high school and college game is the intensity and physicality. Everything happens quicker. Decisions are made quicker, reactions have to be quicker, and communication has to be sharper. As a keeper, I have to stay switched on for the full 90 minutes because being switched off for one minute will punish you.”
After completing his senior high school season in the spring, participating on the Montgomery United FC soccer team in the summer, and starting college and playing his freshman season in the fall, Wineburg has had a busy 2025, and an adjustment to college life was necessary.
“Balancing classes, soccer, and life outside of the field has challenged me to grow in discipline and time management. Having a good support system here has made the transition a lot smoother,” said Wineburg.
The Hawks will play on the road at Berry next week before returning home next Saturday, September 27. October will be busy, as the Hawks have eight games on the schedule. Wineburg has some goals in mind for the final month of the season.
“Individually, I want to keep improving every game, being consistent, being a team player, and giving my team the best chance to win. For us as a team, the goal is to keep improving every game and training and put ourselves in a position to make a strong run in conference play and conference tournament, which we will.”
