SLIPPERY ROCK — Emily Grabb has spent most of her life playing soccer.

The Slippery Rock High junior center-midfielder began putting foot to soccer ball at the young age of 7.

She played in the Butler system and played for the Golden Tornado as a freshman two years ago.

Then her family moved into the Slippery Rock district and Grabb’s soccer life faced a new challenge.

“It was a pretty big difference,” Grabb said. “But it was pretty easy getting in with this team. They are really nice people and I love them so much. They are just good people to get to know.”

Grabb is hoping this young Rockets’ team will be able to channel the experience they are gaining this season into success next year.

This campaign has been a difficult one for Grabb and Slippery Rock, which started 0-3 in the region before a 7-4 win over Sharpsville Tuesday.

Grabb sees promise from both herself and her teammates.

“I feel like we have a lot of room to grow,” Grabb said. “We are definitely getting there.”

Slippery Rock lost its stellar goalkeeper, Hannah Willison, to a knee injury before the season. That has left a big hole to fill and one that coach Melanie Roczko has juggled with Loran Leonberg and new addition Hannah Lindey.

Grabb, though, has been one of the players Roczko has counted on to spark an offense that has had success.

Slippery Rock has scored 32 goals with Bailey Boyd leading the way with eight.

Grabb has added four goals and three assists.

“I’m hoping that Emily can be my center-mid and control the ball and control the field,” Roczko said. “When Emily’s on, the whole team is on. I tell her that all the time. She’s kind of whether the switch is on and off on my field. The switch has to stay on.”

Grabb has played club soccer for PA Crew and has used that experience to hone her skills.

“I’ve been able to play with different players, getting to know personalities and seeing different aspects of the game,” Grabb said.

Her role on the Rockets is an important one.

Grabb said she tries to not put pressure on herself.

“It’s a really big task,” Grabb said. “I try not to think about it too much so I’m not in my own head about it.”

Grabb has remained friends with her former Butler teammates as well as PA Crew teammates who play for other high schools, such as Seneca Valley.

She recently attended a Butler-Seneca Valley soccer game and found her allegiances split.

“I went to watch one of their games,” Grabb said. “I have lots of friends on Seneca Valley, too. I rooted for both teams.”