On April 1, both the boys and girls soccer teams advanced to the state semi-finals, with the varsity boys defeating Bowie 1-0 and the varsity Lady Vipers securing a 2-1 victory over Westwood. Players from both teams reflect on the season, their growth throughout, and what’s led them to this point.

For the Lady Vipers, making it to the state semifinals shows how much they have grown as a team. After a tough season last year, the team has worked hard to grow stronger than ever. 

“It feels amazing to have made it this far,” senior and center back Ally McDonald said. “Last year was tough, but we came together this season. All of our hard work is paying off.”

McDonald credits the team’s success to not only their increased physical strength, but also the emotional strength the team has gained. For her, playing for each other has been a key role and helping the team grow. 

“We’ve really focused on working together as a team and playing for each other,” McDonald said. “It’s been amazing to see how much we’ve grown.”  

Senior Maggie Cartwright agrees, emphasizing how the team’s growing unity and communication has led to their success throughout the season and playoffs. 

“We were really underestimated all season, but now we’re proving people wrong,” Cartwright said. “It’s been exciting to see all our offseason work pay off. We’re playing for each other, and it’s made all the difference.” 

The Lady Vipers have relied on outstanding performance from star players, like Kyla Jones, but Cartwright believes that its been a collective effort that has taken the team so far. 

“Our star players like center back Ally McDonald, forward Eva P, and goalie Kyla Jones have been amazing,” Maggie said. “But it’s been everyone playing together that’s made the team successful.”

On the boys team, senior co-captain James Hehman sees the team’s success as a product of their strong chemistry and drive for the same goal. 

“We have great team chemistry, and it’s really gotten as far this season,” Hehman said. “Even the guys who don’t play much still support the team. We all have a good relationship, and that’s been huge for the success of the team.” 

Hehman knows the importance of staying calm and confident during games. For him, giving everything in each game is essential, especially with the fact that every match could be their last. 

“As the captain, there are more eyes on me when it comes to leadership, especially acknowledging star players and keeping a positive attitude,” Hehman said. “And in the playoffs, every game could be your last game, so as a senior I always give it my all.” 

Senior goalkeeper Finn Snyder comments on the work of the captains and credits the teams success to their ability to work well together. 

“This year the team has gotten a lot closer and there’s more positive feedback between one another during games,” Snyder said. “There is a better emotional feel on the field within the team and between teammates, which makes the games 100% more enjoyable.” 

Having a strong bond between teammates and working well with each other has led the boys soccer team to success. Additionally, watching film has allowed the team to review their tactics and plan for the future. 

“Before every game, Coach Winship gives us a tactical breakdown of the other team,” Snyder said. “This helps prepare us for the opponents we are about to face and gives us an expectation going into the game.” 

Both the boys and girls team have leaned on teamwork and trust to help get them through the season. Hehman believes their confidence and strong bond has been key. 

“We are ready for the state semi-finals,” Hehman said. “We’ve worked really hard throughout the season, and we feel confident going in.” 

For the Lady Vipers, the excitement of reaching semi finals is very similar. 

“This team has improved so much throughout this season,” McDonald said.  “We have grown so much from the scrimmages in December to playoffs  and we are peaking at just the right time to beat talented teams through the playoffs.” 

Both teams have proved that their hard work, leadership and unity has prepared them for this opportunity. The boys beat Strake Jesuit 2-0 to find themselves in the 6A D2 state final next week in Georgetown, while the girls narrowly lost to Stratford 1-0 to see their season end one game shy of the title match.