The School Buzz: Budding Lewis-Palmer soccer star turning serious injury into unique opportunity

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) - A budding soccer star in southern Colorado will now be on the sidelines for at least the next year following a devastating injury. But she’s not letting her rehabilitation stop her from having a tremendous impact on her team. 

Carly Sharratt is a freshman at Lewis-Palmer High School. She’s already won an impressive MVP award and has been playing amongst the state’s best with the Elite Club National League at Pride Soccer. However, all momentum came to a quick halt last month when she learned she had torn her ACL, MCL, and meniscus in her knee. 

It was shattering news that meant surgery and a lengthy recovery process.  

Carly’s high school coach, Brian Barkey, immediately affirmed to her, upon the news, that she would still be a pivotal member of the team. And Carly accepted the challenge. 

Instead of taking the year off, Carly, on top of her extensive physical therapy to rehab her knee, will be helping Barkey coach the high school soccer team. She’s also been invited to create practice plans and implement other means that will “develop her soccer IQ.” 

Carly’s mom, Jamie, emailed KRDO13, saying that Coach Barkey is a “source of goodwill and good character.” 

When Barkey offered this opportunity, Carly said, “I won't let you down, coach. I will play for you again." 

Carly hopes to be back on the field next year. She’s working hard with a personal trainer who’s helped NFL athletes recover from injuries just as serious – all to ensure she is kicking and running the best sooner rather than later. 

Do you know something or someone remarkable at your school? Email us! Schoolbuzz@krdo.com.