Hannah Levin ’25
Throughout past Girl’s Varsity Soccer seasons, the bleachers have mostly stood empty. This year is different, however. One way or another, the word was spread, support was rallied, and attendance soared. It seems as though the whole school has been on its feet, captivated by St. Andrews’ Girls Varsity Soccer.
But what makes these games so intriguing? The matches are filled with exciting goals, steals, and blocks. Senior Nariah Goldman, an American University commit, and Junior Kosette Koons-Perdikis wear the captain’s bands this year. Together, with the rest of the team, they have set a 3-1-1 record, according to MaxPreps, making them second in the ISL. Goals primarily come from Emma Antonetti, Raina Andrew, and Lucy Bobb, as well as the aforementioned Goldman and Koons-Perdikis.
Senior Nariah Goldman shared that the team’s newfound success is due to being “more connected” and that the fans should “appreciate the effort in girls’ games.” Goldman also stated that success “comes with building the team culture.” She believes this connection has been a motivating factor in reaching their current standing in the league. She also added how the freshmen have played a significant role in the team’s dynamic, as many of the girls have been at St. Andrews since middle school. The team knows they can trust each other in the games, even in times of struggle, allowing them to thrive on the field.
Junior Maddy Friedman added, “Our team has a lot of good chemistry and strong players,” and these connections can be seen within the wins and goals scored. Every player is a valuable member of the team, and all of them share a strong connection. Team-wide celebrations are made for every goal scored, with the defensive players even running to congratulate them from the other side of the field.
This celebration is not only seen by players, but also by the student section. Junior Kate Odell noted that it’s not only “fun to see the school come together and show our spirit,” but to see the team’s hard work and talent. She loves “seeing all of the players’ goals,” and loves cheering them on at the games.
Coach George, a new addition to the coaching staff, has also been a great help not only in improving everyone’s skills individually, but he has built up those skills as a team. Their practice’s now have clear plans and use specific formation drills.
Junior Ashley Antezana added, “Although he has very high expectations, he never forgets to have fun and is always joking around,” even naming himself, “Festus the Bestus.”
So what’s to come next? Nariah Goldman said she not only “wants to win,” but also to continue to make games a fun and energizing experience. Judging by the season so far, it seems they are well on their way to doing just that.
Photograph by Andrea Joseph