This 2025 girls’ soccer season started with a lot of uncertainty. We had new faces, new challenges, yet a lot of hope. Although the season started with a devastating injury, senior Captain Molly Sommer ‘26 tore her ACL, we made sure not to let that diminish our hopes in the upcoming season.
From the very first day of preseason, we immediately bonded over the shared dread of taking that fitness test, but looking back, the season went by so quickly.
This year was filled with memories that didn’t always have to do with goals or stats. From throwing Coach Matt a baby shower, Molly taking the kickoff on senior day, dressing up as Adam Sandler for Halloween, and Coach Nicole bringing us Crumbl, we all grew so much closer as a team.
My favorite memory was getting Coach Nicole’s first win against Morris Catholic as head coach (Coach Matt was on paternity leave), especially since we had lost 2-6 previously to Morris Catholic. I still remember how exhilarating it was when Lexi Strauss ‘29 scored the first goal—a top corner screamer—and then scored another to seal the game. It was extremely intense, but it was so amazing to win.
Of course, the season had its challenges, but every setback helped us grow. By the end of the season, our growth was undeniable, and we improved with every game we played: from losing to Kent Place in our very first preseason scrimmage to beating them in the first round of states, falling to Morris Catholic 2-6, to beating them 2-0, and then winning against Kinnelon in a 2-1 thriller.
Unfortunately, our season ended against Immaculate Heart Academy. We fought hard and played amazingly well. Coming out with only a 0-2 loss against the #1-ranked team, we had everything to be proud of.
Looking back at our 9-7 record, this season wasn’t perfect, but it was all worth it. We grew as a team and formed bonds that will last for years. In each game, we put in a great effort, which created a warm environment that I’m so glad I was a part of.
