Of all the lessons learned in women's soccer this season, the ones the players remember most are motivation and tenacity. From the first practice of the summer to the final game in October, they fought through a tough season with one win, nine losses, and two ties. Twelve of the 16 players are first-year players and are expected to return next season.
Augusto is a sophomore goaltender majoring in psychology who will transfer to Multnomah University in the fall after completing his final season at UCC. “I love everything about soccer,” she says. “I like the fact that we have to work together toward a goal. It's something we can't rely on just one person.”
A strong team even in difficult times
Even in the face of adversity, such as a death in the family, living on a continent far from home, and forming a young team, the athletes continued to support each other.
“I got injured in high school and then joined the team. They encouraged me to slow down and pushed me out of my comfort zone,” said the freshman business major and defensive midfielder. Cory Gorman says: “We played with heart and even though we lost, I think we were all pretty proud of each other for how we played.”
Gorman is hoping for more wins next year. “Hopefully we can work very cohesively as a team and score some goals and actually win some games,” Gorman said.
Coach Annika Bloom noted the encouragement and spirit the team exudes. “I think my group is very keen to challenge themselves even when they have setbacks. I find activities that challenge the children and see them grow from there. I love it,” Bloom says.
Sometimes we overlook how difficult it is for athletes to maintain a high GPA. Bloom assists the team not only as a coach, but also as an academic advisor. The lowest her team's GPA was her 3.25 and several members of her team had her 4.0. “I try to keep the kids in the same class, so they can help each other if needed and not only so they don't feel too lost, but they can also go to the library or student center together. You can go and sit there,” Bloom says. Sometimes students do homework together in Bloom's office. “They're like, oh, I took that class in the fall. Let me help you. They're really good at it.”
“I love the community aspect of it,” Bloom says. “The last game, with all of our friends and family, was a very intense, active game. The energy was so much fun and the girls really got their fill from it. I think it will be a fun memory for them too. think.”
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