Undeniably, the OH girls’ soccer team has had an unforgettable season so far. With a record of 15-1-3, first in conference, and sixth in the state, the team has persevered and found success this season – and aim to again tonight against Joliet West at an away match-up rescheduled due to rain.
“This group is right up there with some of the best we’ve had,” said OH Head Coach Gaspar Arias. “What separates them is their consistency and positive mindset. In the past, we’ve had talented teams, but this group combines talent with focus every day. They put in the work and energy, and that’s what makes them special.”
To achieve this, the team has to balance school work and practice. Although rewarding, some find balancing both of these heavy loads difficult.
“It is very hard, but as my mom always says, school first, I can schedule social events outside of soccer with ease, as soccer practice or games are at specific times,” said OH senior striker Jordyn Washington. “Though I have missed out on my share of birthday parties for tournaments.”
Similarly, OH senior Gianna Rizzo added, “Balancing soccer, school, and work has gotten increasingly more difficult, but if you really want it, it’s possible.”
Many soccer players rely on the teamwork portion of soccer: the exciting details like bus rides, team bonding, as what brings the team together.
OH junior Analia Ortiz said, “Teamwork is a big part of being successful on the field because soccer isn’t a one-person sport; you need everyone working together, communicating, and trusting each other. If we’re not on the intensity level, it causes our team to break down.”
Many of the team members have been playing soccer their entire lives. They started young, played in middle school, then to high school, and then a few years later they moved on to college-level soccer. Those that have serve as mentors.
“Our older players also do a great job guiding the younger ones,” said Coach Arias, “which really elevates the whole team.”
A lot of the girls have siblings or younger girls who look up to them as people and players; they serve as their role models.
“To younger girls who want to start playing soccer, I would advise them just to try it,” said Rizzo. “I have met so many of my best friends through the sport, and I would never go back and change anything.”
In addition to the mentorship that helps to build the team, Coach Arias sees the team setting goals to continue the growth.
“We set goals around effort, growth, and competing at a high level every game, and the team has stayed committed to that,” Arias added.
“Being undefeated reflects it, but more importantly, it’s how we’ve approached each game. We still have room to improve, and our focus now is finishing the season strong and preparing for the playoffs,” he said.
Playoffs, starting with the IHSA Regional Quarterfinals, begin May 15 for the team.
My name is Eduardo, this is my first year on 42Fifty, I am a Staff Reporter, and I am a senior. You can contact me by emailing 42Fifty@sd308.org and putting my name in the subject line. We welcome comments on our articles and feedback on our publication.
Hello! My name is Madi Young! I am sports editor here at 42fifty! You can contact me by emailing 42fifty@sd308.org and putting my name in the subject line. We welcome comments on our articles and feedback on our publication!
