The Highlanders D2 girls soccer team have officially kicked off the 2024-25 season! Twenty girls from Grades 9 to 12 comprise this year’s roster with half the team being new players. After a handful of practice days, the team has been faced with their first real challenge in an exhibition game against crosstown rival Avon View High School.
To gain better insights into players' fitness, positions, skills, and team chemistry, the coaches opted for an unconventional format: three 30-minute thirds instead of the usual two 45-minute halves. This format had the benefit of sending in three different lineups to see various combinations of players in action. Additionally, the extra break gave the coaches an opportunity to provide more feedback and make adjustments.
The Avon View team, which competes in a higher division, came out hot and scored a goal within the first ten minutes of action. The Highlanders were not deterred by the early goal and started to gain more control and produce more chances. It was in the 22nd minute when striker Addison Burnett ’25 got a shot at the top of the 18-yard box which found its way into the mesh. The first third was certainly the most dynamic phase for both teams.
The quality of the game ebbed over the remaining 60 minutes with Avon View scoring twice more. Although the Highlanders produced some promising chances, they were unable to capitalize on them.
In the end, Avon View was the deserving winner with a final score of 1:3. Despite the loss, coaches Dietrich and Wade are optimistic about the team's growth and are looking forward to the 2024 KES Highlanders Invitational Tournament this weekend, where the Highlanders will have the chance to showcase their improvements and compete on home turf.