By Cameron Hill

   Zero. That is how many goals the TPA high school girls’ soccer team allowed through their first four games, as the team’s defensive strength guides them toward playoffs. 

   This season has had its highs and lows for the team and it currently sits at a record of 6-3-1, with a big rivalry win versus Chandler Prep. The team has fought COVID-19 and injury challenges throughout the season, but it has persevered with a strong, positive attitude and team effort. 

   The team still has lofty goals and with just a couple games left on the regular-season schedule, is trying to end the season on a high note. Playoffs are well within reach and the girls say they are hoping a deeper run past the first round is in their future.

   The biggest challenge the team has faced has been illness. Senior Lainey Wait said, “Missing players due to Covid and quarantining” has been “a big challenge,” while junior Hannah Chadwick said that the team has almost always had “at least one person missing due to some illness.” Missing key players for any reason is always difficult and forces the team to adjust. Lainey said the key to overcoming this adversity has been the integration of some JV players.

   “Our JV players do a great job of keeping up with the intensity,” she said. Hannah added that the team “consistently changes plays to fit the players.” The team has done a great job of being flexible, so that missing one or two players does not stop them from achieving good results.

   Having overcome many of their COVID-19 difficulties, the team is enjoying a successful season and much of that can be attributed to their team chemistry. Hannah said, “We have a pretty good team dynamic and have been working really well as a whole,” which senior Hailey Henederson echoed, saying, “We have started playing more as a unit.” 

   Teamwork is a building block for success and influences all parts of the game. Lainey said the team’s key has been “communication on the field,” which is a great indicator the team feels comfortable playing together. 

   Though the team takes its craft very seriously, senior Caroline Webster wants everyone to know they “like to keep the team environment fun.” Oftentimes, it is easy to forget that having fun is crucial to success in sports, but the team has found a great balance between fun and competition.

   Previous seasons have ended with disappointing first round exits but Hannah said she is confident that this year will be different and they will push themselves and “get through a few rounds.”

   The team’s next game is scheduled against Arete Prep on Feb. 1.