Collegedale Academy’s girl’s soccer team wrapped up their 2024 season this fall. According to their coaches, the girls spent the season working together to play their best. Their teamwork paid off, and the team experienced a winning season compared to past years. Players also had time for fun throughout the season. “My favorite memory was when my team and I had a water balloon fight,” senior Julia Waterhouse recalls. “[It was] during practice on a really hot day, and then [we] scrimmaged soaking wet.”

Ellie Hocking, one of the team’s coaches, describes the girls as “inspiring” and resilient. A CA alumni herself, Hocking was part of the girls’ soccer team before graduating in 2023. “Of course I wish that it could be me out on that field, but watching them is almost just as fulfilling!” Hocking declares. She also acknowledges how difficult it can be to have so much on one’s plate during the season. “New coaches, hectic practice schedules, and trying to balance school and personal lives on top of it…I was in their shoes not long ago and I understand how challenging it can be to balance everything, so I’m glad I get to be someone for them to lean on!”

The team was stronger this year compared to the past few years due to the effort put in by teammates and coaches. For future seasons, the team hopes to continue the improvement made this year through teamwork and working harder.