If first impressions are any indication, the Lady Hillers soccer team is off to a fantastic start. This hard-working and goal-oriented group of girls has persevered through the challenges of the last year and half to find success even in unlikely circumstances. 

Lead by Captain Alyssa Clutter and seven other seniors, the 28-player strong team is comprised of ten juniors, five sophomores and five freshmen. Many of the upperclassmen have been on the team for several years, and Coach Dave Sinclair mentioned the unusually large group of juniors has made much improvement within the last season. 

As of October 11th, the team has a record of 6-6. Included in that record are a couple of comeback victories that really boosted the team’s morale. 

According to Sophomore goalie Ruby Morgan, “I think the team’s greatest accomplishment this season has been beating Ringgold and Belle Vernon. Last season Belle Vernon beat us 6-2. This season we beat them 2-1. Last season we lost to Ringgold 3-2 and this season beat them 2-1 in a thriller.”

Coach Sinclair was also excited about these wins and commented that the Belle Vernon game especially was a great achievement for the team. 

Communication and team work, both in practice and during games, is critical. Given the loss of the class of 2021 players  to this year’s team, it initially seemed these areas could prove challenging to the girls. 

Fortunately, “They work very [well] together as a team… I told the team that it’s impossible for almost 30 girls to be best friends, but they can all get along, respect each other and find a way to achieve a common goal by working together,” said Coach Sinclair. 

Due to a few early postponements, the team’s season was slightly extended. Unfortunately, the postponements will mean that the first two weeks of October, barring no further delays, will be arduous for the team as they work to fit in both the regularly scheduled and make-up games. 

Luckily, the team has thus far been unhindered by COVID. Morgan noted that most of the team members put in work in the off season which allowed the group to start the season essentially where they left off last year. 

Coach Sinclair is hopeful the girls’ efforts will be met with success in the remaining games. 

“We want to make the playoffs and win a few playoff games… I’m looking forward to seeing how the rest of the season plays out. I believe we can reach our goals. The girls’ hard work and dedication should pay off,” he said. 

The team’s next match is on Thursday, October 14, away at Ringgold  High School. Good luck to all the girls, and keep up the great work.