One of my first memories on the Circle is sitting under a tree before my first JV girls soccer practice. Observing from afar, I watched as the other girls laughed and chatted, dribbling a ball around before the coaches gathered us together. I recall how nervous I was as I tried to hide behind my mask (still trapped in the pandemic era), avoiding these strangers who were now my teammates. I had no idea what to expect or what the season would entail. I didn’t know anyone on the team, and I most certainly did not know how to play soccer.
Looking back three years later, a lot has changed since my first JV soccer practice on the Circle. I am no longer the timid and introverted Third Former I once was, which I attribute to the friendships I formed with the girls on this team. I would have never met my roommate or some of my closest friends if I hadn’t been encouraged by my teammates to venture out of my comfort zone. This team helped me develop a sense of community at Groton before I knew where my place was on the Circle.
Our team has had many ups and downs, yet no matter if we win or lose, we’re always supportive of one another. Although we may not be the most skilled, we will always have a fiery and formidable energy. A particularly unforgettable memory I recall from this year was scoring a goal against St. George’s to tie the game 1-1. Forgetting all sportswomanship rules, the whole team stormed the field to celebrate the goal. Despite the fact that we almost got a yellow card from the referee, we nevertheless shared pure joy in this moment of utmost surprise and excitement.
This weekend, our team had a thrilling Parents’ Weekend match against Tabor. Fueled by the cheering of parents and spectators on the sidelines, we fought with grit and determination while simultaneously making each other laugh and having a good time. Our goalkeeper Sage (“The Wall”) Greaves ’26 had multiple superb saves, and Charlotte Ghaeli ’26 scored a glorious goal that formed a perfect parabola, landing straight into the top left corner of the net. Additionally, the McAndrew sisters, Grace ’25 and Pauline ‘26, were a force to be reckoned with on defense, and Jaelyn Trudell ’26 put up a scrappy fight on offense after taking a small tumble.
However, without our coaches, Señor Fernández and Mrs. LeRoy, guiding us throughout the season, our vitality would flicker out. Their encouragement and direction are the backbone of our team. They allow us to goof around and have fun but also let us know when it’s time to practice with focus and purpose. Our coaches are always a constant source of motivation, no matter the circumstances of the games.
As my third season on this team comes to an end, I’m grateful for all the lessons I’ve learned. Not only have I developed my soccer skills, but I’ve also learned to be a leader as well as grow as a team player and an individual.