Last year’s Galena Soccer team finished their year with a winning season. This was the first time in program history that the team has accomplished this goal. They were able to compete in a great season with the help of their then head coach, Randi Burken and assistant Paul Kluzek.

Although Burken loved coaching the girls, she has resigned from her position this year because of her busy schedule. Former Coach Burken said, “I would love to see even more success and growth than last year!” “I am looking forward to come and watch a game and see how much the team has improved and who is new to the team,” she said.
This season’s new head coach is Jorden Rijpma. Coach Rijpma said,“I hope the girls can follow up on last year’s winning season. They have worked hard this preseason and are showing improvement. I hope this translates to some great soccer on the field.”

Practice started for the team at the end of February, when the soccer field was covered in snow. The team was forced inside for the beginning of the season. The team worked hard to brush up on basic skills and start working together as a team. Varsity goalie and team captain, Elena Garcia ‘19 said, “Last season we had the first ever winning record. This season I hope that we do better and improve, not just individually but also as a team.”

Part of team building is welcoming new head coach Rijpma. “I am thankful that Galena had a soccer team and I hope this sport will grow even more in the coming years,” he said. “One of my favorite things about coaching is seeing a player have success on the field after a lot of hard work.” Coach Rijpma also said that he hopes the girls have a lot of fun this season.

So go support the girls at their next home game and see if it paid off on, April 4th at 5:p.m. against Platteville! Go Pirates!