Coming back from CIF finals with an overall record of 11-7-9 and League record of 2-4-2, according to an official high school sports stat website, the Girls Varsity Soccer Team is fired up to bring home the championship title this year, kicking off the new season with a 2-3-0 record (maxpreps.com).
Coach Jason Donlon said, “As for every year our goal is to win a championship. It will be a huge task to do so this year.” With six seniors that are now Centurion Alumni, Donlon added, “We have some very strong returning players, but in the five years I’ve been here, this is as close to a rebuilding year as we’ve had.”
Although the team will be receiving a lot of “new faces,” it isn’t necessarily a bad thing. “I think this year is definitely a rebuilding year. We lost some solid players, but new players can bring a fresh look at how we play our game and can make us an unexpected team,” said Defensive Center Mid Madi Balagtas.
According to Outside Mid/Forward Erin Gillum, “In order to progress and get far this season, we will need to learn to play together as a unit. I’m certain under our coach’s direction we will grow throughout the season and hopefully be playing our best soccer towards the end.”
As the sport of soccer is played between two teams of 11 on the field at a time, on-field chemistry and teamwork is much needed. Donlon explained, “Our main strength has been our unity. That was tested a little last year. You can’t have any sour apples. It’s a family environment. Families go through a lot, but at the end of the day it’s the love and care for one another that should always bring you home.” Junior Left Mid Julia Cowell  explained, “We’re like a family every year. Team chemistry always helps. Especially in soccer, anticipating your teammate’s next move is really vital in the game.”
“I just always remind the girls of the care we have for one another and that when we step out onto the field, we are entering into a battle together and to look around at these faces beside them. This is who they are fighting for. If the thrill of putting on the UC uniform and stepping out under the lights doesn’t pump you up, I’m not sure what will,” said Donlon. Not only does each player represent the number on the back of their jerseys, but the name on the front. Each player works together to represent their school pride and athletics the best they can.
A unified team is one to succeed and fail together, as one whole. Team obviously plays a key role in success, even pro athletes know it. According to a website that shares inspiring quotes, Team USA Female Soccer Player Alex Morgan once said, “… really get to know and establish relationships with your teammates because they are your new family and they will be the ones there for you when anything goes wrong” (azquotes.com).