BY ELISA CIOKU
The varsity girls soccer team won the first three rounds of the GMC tournament but lost in the finals against Monroe in a close 1-0 match. Along the way, they defeated one of their rivals, East Brunswick 5-0 and earned a 14-5 record.
In the finals on October 29, although the girls lost to Monroe, they got to advance to the Championship game, which they haven’t done since 2019. “It was definitely a disappointing loss for the whole team, but we all let everything out there on the field and I’m extremely proud of our whole team for this entire season and getting that far,” shared freshman goalie Jessica Lane, who had 14 saves in that game. “We still have states, and we’re still going to come out just as hard and keep our heads up!”
Seniors Alyssa Penn and Morgan Nelson both achieved 100 career points during the season. “Feels pretty good! A good accomplishment to have!” shared Nelson. Nelson now has 116 career points and Penn has 124.
In addition to each of the girl’s individual accomplishments, they have come together to make this season the most successful of their high school careers. “This season has been the most enjoyable out of all the years I’ve been here, and it’s definitely because our team chemistry is the highest it’s ever been,” said senior Alyssa Penn who had a successful season with 23 goals. “We count on one another and we’re always there to support our teammates on and off the field, so the chemistry and team bonding is definitely the best part.”
As the season comes to an end, the girls will lose a group of amazing seniors for the next season. “It’s super sad, I have met so many great people and made so many great bonds through this program. I have memories that I will never forget and cherish forever!” shared Nelson. “I have a lot ahead of me, so I am sad this chapter of my life is ending but a new one is opening up!”
Regardless of their loss to Monroe, the girls get the chance to compete in the first round of the NJSIAA Tournament today. “I feel good about us making it this far,” said Cusick. “I am excited to see how this game is going to go. We all worked so hard for this moment!”
The girls have done everything they can to prepare for their first round of states against Edison. “We are making sure we stay positive and keep our heads high and not give up. We can make a really good run in states and I’m just trying to make my teammates believe that!” said Nelson, who scored 12 goals this season.
“Today is going to be all about focus, we got to this point so now it’s time to prove why we deserve it and finish what we started,” shared Penn. The girl’s season isn’t over yet, come out on November fourth, to watch them go against Edison in their first round of states!
Posted on 11/4/24
Photos Nadia Dering and Kaylee Weingarten
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