The girls varsity soccer team is rewriting the playbook with a narrative of grit and unity as they triumph on the hallowed grounds of the soccer field. With an overall record of 8-3, the girls are having a smooth and successful season with more victories likely to come. Currently standing at a respectable second place in the Prep League, the Panthers boast a league record of 4-2. Their recent triumph against Westridge School on Jan. 16 further solidified their outstanding reputation on the field with a dominant 6-2 victory.
Head coach Heidi Strauss, the guiding force behind the team, emphasizes the positive environment of the squad.
“The culture of the team is very united and that affects their playing too on the field. They connect well and work very well together,” said Strauss.
Sophomore Carolyn Wang echoed Strauss and underlined the pivotal role played by the team’s experienced players. “Our upperclassmen do a really good job leading the team, so we do have a strong bond,” Wang said.
The seniors, Bianca Howitt, Cyanne Jones, Willow Breen, Irina Alsoufiev, Katie Walsh, Olivia Collier and Siena Jurgensen, bring not only experience but also a resilient spirit that elevates the entire team’s performance.
Jones said, “We have a great defense lineup, and we rarely let things past us.”
The team’s success can be attributed to both the strong individual talents and also the collective effort that shines on the field. The Panthers exhibit a well-coordinated style of play, with each player focused on contributing to the overall strategy. Their prowess transcends beyond the game itself, creating a cohesive unit that works seamlessly together. In short, their athletic mastery is matched by a tight familial bond.
Their success is not measured merely in goals but in the shared moments of love, respect and unwavering support that turn them from a team into a family, driving them towards greatness with every stride on the soccer pitch.
In the upcoming match against Chadwick, Poly aims to carry forward the momentum from their recent victories. With a balanced mix of experienced seniors and talented underclassmen, the team exudes confidence as they navigate the challenges of the league.
As the Panthers continue their season in the Prep League, their commitment and teamwork set them apart from the rest, making them a force to be reckoned with.