A-K Valley athletes of the week: Plum’s Olivia Bigger, Riverview’s Greg Morse

By: Brennan Valladares
Saturday, October 18, 2025 | 8:48 PM

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Olivia Bigger

School: Plum

Class: Senior

Sport: Soccer

Claim to fame: In the final two games of the regular season, Bigger tallied three goals and two assists, helping Plum (15-1, 12-0) end on a six-game winning streak. Two of those goals came against section rival Greensburg Salem. As a result, the Mustangs remained undefeated in Section 4-3A. After claiming its seventh consecutive section title, Plum earned the No. 4 seed in the WPIAL playoffs and will face No. 13 Chartiers Valley on Monday.

You guys won your seventh straight section title, allowing only three goals in section play. How have you been able to blend prolific scoring with stalwart defense?

It all comes down to balance and teamwork. Our offense works hard to create scoring chances and put pressure on the other team. Our defense stays solid, communicating and shutting down opportunities before they even start. Everyone knows their role and trusts each other to do it. That trust lets our scorers focus on finishing, knowing the defense has their back. When both sides click like that, it’s tough for any opponent to break through or keep up with our scoring.

It seemed like you saved your scoring punch until the last few games. What led to you being so successful at finding the back of the net and setting up your teammates in the final two games of the season?

What led to my success was finally believing in myself and making the right decisions on the field. I’m usually someone who looks to set up my teammates or create new opportunities to move the ball around. But when the chance to finish comes, I focus on correcting any mistakes and making sure I take advantage of the opportunity.

What has been the key to your team’s success over the last seven years? Especially in your four years at Plum?

Our success really comes down to us supporting each other. Every year, new talent steps up ready to grow, so when seniors leave, it’s never hard to fill those spots. As seniors, we want to leave a lasting mark but also make sure we’re leaving behind a spot that’s inviting and ready for someone to step into big shoes. Our team is always hungry for new challenges and focused on building each other up to be the best players we can be. That’s what’s made all the difference, especially during my four years at Plum.

You guys have been to the semifinals in two of the last three years. What will it take to finally get over the hump this year and potentially win the school’s first WPIAL title?

To finally get over the hump and win the school’s first WPIAL title, it’s going to take everyone bringing their absolute best every single game. We need to stay focused, trust each other and keep pushing through any tough moments without losing confidence. It’s about playing as a true team, staying disciplined, and seizing every opportunity when it counts.

What is your pregame routine?

My pregame routine starts with carefully watching and analyzing how the other team plays. I pay close attention to their strategies, strengths and weaknesses, breaking down everything I see in my mind. This mental breakdown helps me prepare for what I might face on the field. After that, I focus deeply on my personal goals for the game, reminding myself what I want to achieve and how I plan to contribute to the team. At the same time, I work on calming any nerves, using positive self-talk to stay composed and confident.

Do you have plans to attend college? If so, is soccer a part of that plan?

I plan to attend Thiel College to study psychology and continue my athletic journey as a Tomcat.

What are your favorite ways to take your mind off soccer?

My favorite ways to take my mind off soccer are kicking a football to stay active, doing a Bible study to find peace and reading a book to escape into new stories. Preparing to teach the word of the Lord on Sundays also helps me focus on something meaningful and keeps me grounded spiritually. These activities together help me balance my body, mind and spirit when I need a break from the game.

What has been your biggest achievement outside of sports?

My biggest achievement outside of sports has been mastering time management. I’ve managed to take an online high school class while handling a full schedule at CCAC, where I’m beginning my studies in psychology and criminology. On top of that, I work a full-time job every day. I also juggle double practices and multiple games each week for the Plum soccer team, plus I kick every Friday night for the football team. And every Sunday, I dedicate time to teaching little ones about the Lord. Balancing all of this has been a real test of discipline and commitment.

Greg Morse

School: Riverview

Class: Freshman

Sport: Soccer

Claim to fame: With the Raiders trailing 2-0 in their season finale, Morse led the rallying effort against section rival Trinity. After converting on a penalty kick, Morse set up Eben Ulrich for the tying goal in the second half. In overtime, Morse netted the game-winner off an assist from Carson Bodar.

How were you able to close out strong in the last two games of the season coming off a three-game losing streak?

We didn’t get discouraged. We played aggressive and with intensity.

How were you able to come up clutch and make the right plays against a Trinity team that had beaten you guys earlier in the year?

We learned from our mistakes, played as a team and moved the ball well. My teammates made some really good plays, and I was able to finish.

What was it like to net three goals against section rival Jeannette earlier in the year?

It felt good. It was good to help get the win.

Were you expecting to be the team’s leading scorer in your first season of high school soccer?

No. Because I’m new to the high school style of play and a freshman. I just try to go out and play my game. I’m happy coach gave me the chance.

What does your pregame routine look like? Any superstitions?

I do short passes then some long balls to work on my touch. I really don’t have any superstitions yet.

What are some of your hobbies outside of soccer?

I like to fish and hang out with friends. We have a lot of fishermen on the team.

Do you play or have any other favorite sports?

I play basketball, but soccer is my favorite sport.

Academically, how have you adjusted to the high school workload?

Pretty good. I’m hoping to maintain my honor roll status. The teachers have really helped me make the adjustment.

Tags: Plum, Riverview