Standing at the edge of the sea of painted lines and green grass, the girls of the SWHS soccer team prepared for an intense game on a professional field for their senior night.
Before the game had started, each senior was announced and walked out onto the field escorted by a family member or someone special in their lives, where they were cheered on by the eagerly-awaiting crowd. This was a night of anticipation for seniors and for some, a long awaited moment in the spotlight.
Playing at Trinity Health Stadium (formerly Dillon Stadium) is something special to the players as it makes them feel like it’s their night, and an honorable and important occasion to not just them, but to the whole of the student body of South Windsor High School.
I am looking forward to being able to play at Dillon Stadium for the second year for my senior night.
— Senior Hailey Testa
“I am looking forward to being able to play at Dillon Stadium for the second year for my senior night,” Testa said before the game.
As the girls were honored at Trinity Health Stadium, the bond that has grown over the course of this season on the team was evident. It was further highlighted on the field with celebration when sophomore Mia Ruiz scored two incredible goals, winning the game.
Victory was theirs as the girls won a decisive 2-1 against Enfield High School under the lights. This comes after last year’s win against Tolland on senior night. Winning two years in a row has brought confidence back to the team and, with a look back through this season, fans can see that confidence building.
“This year has been exciting as our record is showing all our hard work we have put into the season. This has helped us bond as a team and grow, not just on the field but off as well,” said Testa.
If it seems like girls soccer has gotten a lot of attention this year, it is because of their incredible record. This year, the team has banked eleven wins and with a season record at an astonishing 11-1-1.
Playing with not as teammates but as friends has brought the team together and also made working together that much smoother and more enjoyable.
The ten seniors on the team have been an integral part of the leadership and bringing the team together this soccer season.
I’ve loved seeing what we’ve accomplished so far.
— Senior Sage Gray
“Being a senior has affected me because I am a leader to the younger girls on the team…I’ve loved seeing what we’ve accomplished so far,” said senior Sage Gray.
As their season winds down, there remain only three games left before states, so let’s cheer on our lady Bobcats as they finish off this season strong with an incredible record, successful season, and close bonds.
