The 2025 girls varsity soccer season opened up with a strong 6-1 record. The main component of a winning team is community, which the girls soccer team has been building since the beginning of the season. With eleven new players on the team, whether new to the school or just new to varsity, the team has been prioritizing building trust and confidence.
The soccer team’s main three goals are to win states, have fun, and, most importantly: build community. Their emphasis on grit, authenticity, and kindness are shown in the field, in practice, and in games. Returning players assist Coach Kelle Belvine in teaching new players, so that they can each be taught a first-hand experience of what it’s like to be on the team and play on the field.
This fall season, the team has been able to accomplish things that they didn’t get the chance to do last season. Both Varsity and Junior Varsity teams played at a four-day tournament in Tennessee, which they were unable to attend last year because of funding challenges. Belvine emphasized how the tournament contributed to their goals of team chemistry, saying, “that’s a really great bonding experience for the new players.” The tournament also helped them connect better by building community and trust between the players, which has helped improve on-field chemistry.
Pressure and balance can be difficult to handle: especially in terms of academic life versus athletic life. There are many ups and downs that come with being a student athlete, including the training schedule, having to find a routine, and the pressure from your teammates or coach. However, the team’s cohesion and bond helps them get through it. Junior Lucy Carroll, one of the team’s goalies, says, “It’s really easy to get caught up in [the] pressure [of the game] mentally, especially as a keeper, but I make sure to watch [the game], give directions, and compliment my team to keep my head in the game.” Pressure is put on everybody, but paying attention to the team can help players give and receive advice, and focus better in game.
The girls varsity soccer team has been on the road towards greatness with the help of their goals for the year. Through their communication, understanding, and reliance, they have started the season with an impressive record. “If people know each other, and trust each other, they play better together,” Belvine claims. Looking forward, the team aims to end their season on a high note with the DCIAA and DCSAA Championships coming up soon. •