Kicking into the New Season
One last photo. Last year’s GHS soccer players laugh as they take their last photo before the season was cut short. These girls will take the field as this year’s senior players. From left, Willa Hook ‘21, Kristian Hall ‘21, Sophie Northrup ‘21, Mackenzie Knautz ‘21, Maggie Handfelt ‘21 and Karsyn Duplessis ‘21.
This year’s soccer season isn’t going to be like past years, due to the coronavirus pandemic. With the future uncertain, both coaches and players are hopeful that they will be able to play games in the spring. The schedule will continue to look the same while the coronavirus will carry on to affect their overall season.
This year’s schedule is going to be similar when it comes to practices but different when it comes to games. The girls will be practicing every Friday until the no contact week will start. The team will start normal practices in April on the field next to the primary school daily and the season will wrap up in June. The GHS soccer girls are unable to compete out of state due to the coronavirus pandemic. They will continue to play their home games on the football field, while only traveling in Illinois for their away games.
When the coronavirus pandemic first became well known 2020 the girls season was cut short completely and players were unable to practice as well as compete. While the long awaited season approaches players are hoping to be able to play again. The season will not be like previous years as the girls have to practice social distancing skills while at practice as well as meets.The girls also have to wear their masks at all times.
Senior Allison Garcia explains her hopes for the season as well as the difference she experienced this year compared to previous years due to the coronavirus pandemic. “I was really hoping for an exciting senior year for our soccer season, but because of the circumstances, things have not gone the way any of us have wanted them to,” said Allison Garcia. “Last year I was unable to compete due to the coronavirus pandemic, I am hoping that this year will give us an opportunity to play,” explained Garica. Although we have to wear masks and social distance, I’m willing to make the best of it,” said Garcia.
With the changes the coronavirus has created, the season will not be the same. But the coches as well as the players are looking forward to a successful season!
“I’m looking forward to seeing the seniors play,” said head coach Jorden Rijpma. “They have improved a lot from past seasons. We also have a large group of freshmen joining the team this year and I am looking forward to seeing what they can accomplish this season!”
“My goals this season are to make the most of my time playing since we never know when the season may be cut short,” said Mai Kropp ‘23. “I can’t wait to play as a team and have a fun successful season!”
