The Girls Varsity Soccer Team is on the comeback trail. In the mid-2000's, under Coach Ian Patrick '84, the team won the NEPSAC Championship multiple years in a row. It seems they have a title in their sites yet again.
The girls were 4th seed in the tournament this year and played an amazing game against Pomfret in the quarterfinals, coached by Julie Salit and Steve Sughrue. It was so fun to see the whole school out on the sidelines cheering for the girls. Our cheers served to empower both teams as the game remained 0-0 through two overtime sessions. When it came down to the penalty kicks to decide the game, I wasn't sure I could watch it. I hate when all the hardwork of a whole season comes down to a few kicks! But what else was there to do. It was getting dark! So, kick they did and our goalie prevailed. We won! And it was electrifying! The whole field burst with the energy and relief of the goalie when she saved her third kick from the opponents. They would move on to the semi-finals and have another chance at the championship.
When Mr. Quirk included the victory in his Thanksgiving Chapel Talk, he spoke about how the girls, rather than gloat over their victory, went over to Pomfret's goalie to comfort her and congratulate her on a terrific game. Encouraging this kind of sportsmanship, perhaps not always seen by the crowds and certainly not something that is usually highlighted these days in professional sports, is what I appreciate in high school sports: Shaking hands at the end of a game, clapping for injured players as they leave the field, giving an appreciation cheer at the end, etc.
Celebrating the achievements of all the players only increases our enjoyment as we watch their amazing athletic feats. Of course, cheering for your team is fun, and we do have loyalties, but when we appreciate the talents of the other team, the victory feels a little sweeter.
The girls tasted defeat in the semi-finals, losing to the #1 seed: Governor's Academy. While I am sure they were disappointed, I know they felt fortunate to have played so well at that level against two really excellent teams.
Way to go, Seawolves! Next year is yours for the taking!
