I have been a part of the WTHS girls soccer program since my sophomore year of high school in 2022. We are now nearing 2024 and I am getting prepared for my third and final, senior season. This being my final year of playing soccer has brought me many mixed emotions, but it has also made me reflect on all of the great memories playing Warren soccer has brought me. Years from now, I will look back and high school soccer will be one of my favorite memories.

I did not join the girls soccer program here at Warren until my sophomore year of high school. However, I quickly realized that playing soccer with your schoolmates is a completely different experience than playing for a club team where your teammates are from various towns and schools. In a way, playing with other girls at Warren brings you an instant connection because it’s something the whole team has in common. Everyone knows the same people, you might have classes together, and you even become friends with people you might not have even met before. Another great thing about playing high school soccer is being able to play with and against girls that are different ages. Throughout my sophomore and junior year, the seniors were some of my best friends, which wouldn’t have been the case if I hadn’t met them through soccer. It’s opportunities like these that make high school soccer exceptional.

There are many other memorable moments throughout the past seasons that will stick with me forever, such as pasta parties the night before games. Team yoga, an experience that turned into more laughing than stretching. Bus rides home after a win, blasting music and belting out songs with the team. Planning out goal celebrations for big games, like senior night, to celebrate success. Team ice cream after a hot practice. The excited feeling before home games. And even the nerves the team feels together while we get off the bus before a big game, it’s all of these things and more that make being part of the team special. 

In addition to having the sisterhood and team support, the coaches have been my ultimate supporters. They make playing soccer fun, while still maintaining a competitive environment. I can confidently say that the coaches here at Warren have been the best coaches I have ever had. I have not only grown as a soccer player, but also as a person. The coaches make an effort to know each player on a personal level. It is reassuring to know that I can always be myself on good and bad days, and always receive endless support and encouragement. Coach McCabe dedicates so much time and energy to the team. McCabe keeps a fun and light atmosphere while pushing us and teaching us at the same time. He truly cares about us as people, not just athletes. Coach Crawford is not only my coach, but someone I trust and know would have my back through anything and everything. Craw never fails to make us laugh and she cares about us as players, but most importantly as people and is a listening ear when needed. Coach Ahonen shows his belief in me and truly wants me to be the best player I can be. Ahonen helps me work to my full potential as a player, and his constant direction has helped me grow significantly.

It is a bittersweet feeling having this be my final year of high school, as well as my final year playing soccer, but I am more than excited for this upcoming season. I hope these experiences of mine will encourage others to either give soccer a chance and come to tryouts, or bring more experience to the program to make it even better. There is always a spot for everyone, so come play or try it out and make great memories!