Sumner High School soccer player Sarah Carter’s forte was to deny opponents any opportunity to score.

Carter, an integral part the Spartans’ defense that surrendered a mere two goals during their run to the Class 2A state championship in 2012, signed a National Letter of Intent last week to play at Gonzaga University. A ceremony was held Wednesday at the Sumner High School gymnasium.

Carter, who received a rare full athletic scholarship, said she’s excited to play defender for the Bulldogs.

“I love big (slide) tackles,” she said. “That is my favorite thing to do as a soccer player.

“It’s not about scoring. I love saving goals. Defense is all about teamwork.”

Carter said she’s always wanted to play at the NCAA Division I level.

“I just love the school,” she said. “It’s a great place with small classes. I will get a really good education there.”

Spartans head coach Robi Turley believes Carter will thrive in Spokane.

“Sarah is one of the best well-rounded student-athletes that I have had in eight years of coaching,” Turley said. “She is the whole package. I’m really excited for her.”

Turley said Carter’s will to win is second to none.

“Sarah is so hard-nosed and is super competitive,” Turley said. “She doesn’t like to lose and has all of the physical attributes you need as a soccer player. Her presence, in general, makes the players around her better. She is, no doubt, the reason why we won a state championship. She is going to be tough to replace.”

Carter said she’ll never forget going undefeated to win the state title. Sumner went 21-0 and defeated Sehome 1-0 in the championship game.

“We couldn’t have asked to end the season in any better way,” Carter said. “All of those games in the playoffs were such battles. Making history for our school was awesome.”

Sports Editor Shaun Scott can be reached at 253-552-7002 or by email at shaun.scott@puyallupherald.com. Follow him on Twitter, @herald_shaun.