It was a cloudless fall day at Fleming Field in 2019. Farmingdale College senior Daniella Ford stepped onto the turf ready to wrest her easy victory from the Sarah Lawrence Gryphons. In the first half, the Rams weaved their way through their defenders, but despite their efforts, were unable to score against the powerful Gryphons. Farmingdale didn't know what to do. This was Sarah Lawrence, a last-place team they had beaten many times over the years. In the second half, the stalemate was finally broken, with Farmingdale winning 2-0. Nevertheless, it was at this moment that Ford knew the Gryphon was a force to be reckoned with.
Ford currently serves as an assistant coach for Sarah Lawrence women's soccer. Last year, the team won the Skyline Conference, defeating the previous team in a shootout. After the 2023 season, Skyline had eight players named to the all-conference team, the most of any school. Although they suffered a crushing loss to Merchant Marin in the 2023 semifinals, it is true that Lawrence women's soccer is a powerhouse that continues to grow.
So what exactly makes them so successful?
“There will be a lot of different reactions,” head coach Maurizio Grillo said.
Grillo expressed great confidence in the team's individuals. When asked what he does to foster team bonding, he said: Some people are interested in environmental issues, some people are interested in music, and some people are interested in painting. I know that if they need to come together, they will come together. ”
I never expected that this elite team would highlight individuality so beautifully, but as I watched how the players expressed themselves and interacted with others, I realized it was true. One thing has become clear.
Grace Carter '26 was named this year's All-Conference Second Team Player. Although Carter grew up on the soccer field, he lost his personal connection to the sport in high school. Playing for her Sarah Lawrence allowed her to regain her love for the sport. She was amazed at the overwhelming team spirit in small things, like an early morning smoothie made by her team captain.
“Playing with people you like makes a big difference because you want to do good things for them,” Carter said.
When asked about her favorite memory with the team, Rosie Jackson ’26 recalled winning the Skyline Championship.
“We went into a penalty shootout and Dani Perez made the final and winning penalty. It was really cool to see another freshman who worked so hard get a big moment of the season.”