After nearly two full years, the Girls Soccer team came together on Saturday , October 2 to play their first home game at night under the lights in two years. The massive turnout of students dressed in neon helped propel the team to a hard-fought win.

Anna Jofre, a second-year residential senior proctor living in Memorial Hall East, noticed the outstanding team spirit and energy from the crowd.

“I had an incredible time at the game, and it was great to see the Williston community come together as one,” Anna said.

Emily Hamaan, a two-year sophomore living in Mem East, who is also part of the Girls Soccer Team, noted that the overall energy from the team was incredibly positive both before and during the game.

“We were excited because it was our first night game at home,” Emily said. “WMA [Wilbraham & Monson Academy] is a huge rival for our school, and we were looking forward to a big turnout.”

Abby Booth, a two-year senior proctor who used to play for the Girls Varsity Soccer Team, mentioned the fact that, although many students had gone home for the weekend, nearly all the students who were still on campus attended the game.

“The spirit was outstanding.” Abby stated excitedly.

Coach Jen Fulcher said she was “very proud of how the team played. Great passing, hustle, defense, winning 50/50 balls and created numerous terrific scoring opportunities.”

The team played together, Fulcher added, and “with heart and a passion to compete.  Great senior leadership prepared them for a big game and rival and the team played so hard for each other.”

Teaghan Hall, one of the captains of Girls Soccer team, was impressed by the overwhelming spirit from the crowd, and how it translated to the on-the-field success.

Ultimately, The Williston Girls Soccer program gained another win with a score of 1-0 against WMA, with junior Annika Jensen making the assist to senior Caroline Hodges for the goal. Senior captain Selena Negron earned the shutout in goal.

“Each player on the field played a vital role in our goal and not letting us concede a goal,” Selena said. “What helped our team win was our communication and chemistry on the field. Our energy on and off the field helped us get up and back and keep possession for most of the game.”

Coach Fulcher is excited and optimistic for the rest of the season.

“We play one of the most competitive schedules in New England, so every game will be a challenge, but I know that this team will always come out strong, fighting for each other, wanting to be their best,” she said. “They love to compete and are amazing athletes – there is no quit in them and they support each other in good times and bad.  This team knows that this is what success is.