Being a captain of a team at Tabor has been one of my goals since first arriving on campus, largely due to the impact of the captains who have led the many teams I have previously played on. Each of my past teams’ captains has been an amazing leader in their own way, whether through a quiet, lead by example style or by assuming a more outspoken, energetic role. While both styles are equally important and effective, I have learned best in the past when a balance exists among my team captains.
Thankfully, as I assume my role this year for Girls’ Varsity Soccer, I am lucky enough to be working with two other fantastic captains. Individually, we have our own strengths and weaknesses, but together we complement each other well. I know I can always count on them to pick me up when I fall short! And, I can also depend on the many returning seniors for leadership on the team. While being an “older” team creates a real potential advantage, at times it can be challenging to balance the many experienced voices who all deserve to be heard. While that may seem overwhelming at times, I know a huge part of a successful team is camaraderie, and our team would be drastically different without the leadership and qualities all of our seniors.
Personally, as honored as I am to be named a captain, I don’t want my new position to drastically change the way my teammates relate to me, or how I view myself as part of the team. The best leaders who came before me led by example and that’s something I strive to do at every practice. I try to be one of the first on the field and one of the last to leave, giving the best I can every day. Besides that, I know that my voice is only as important as the most quiet voice on the team: we are strongest when we stand together. Tabor Girls Soccer has had and will continue to have a mantra of inclusion (“All In!”) which is, I believe, one of the ways we have found so much success in the past. Each player, whether a new freshman or four-year returner, is just as integral to the team as any other. This year, we will emphasize that as much as possible.
Being a captain is both a great opportunity and a great responsibility, both of which carry some pressure for me. I am lucky to be able to rely on an amazing team to help me be the best I can be while we all strive to become the best team we can be. It really is a group effort and, this year, Tabor Girls’ Soccer is “all in” for the ride!
Tabor Girls’ Soccer is one to keep an eye on this fall! They will be gunning for New England Champs again this year, as they narrowly missed the title last season in the semi-finals. Come see them in action at Tabor this fall.
