We ended with a 9-6-2 record, improving from 8-9 last year. Throughout the season we accomplished many of the goals set forth by the girls. Some of these included winning a game in Columbus, having a winning record, and playing our last regular season game for the conference title. The growth from last year to this year in individual talent was a testament as to how hard these girls worked in the offseason. Our goal for next year will be to have the same improvement individually, but then couple that with growth as a team on the field. Last year we struggled to put goals in against the tough opponents on our schedule, but with the exception of East and Providence, that wasn’t the case this year. We were able to keep ourselves in close games all year by capitalizing on our chances. We learned a new formation this year and asked a lot from the girls to adapt on the fly when things went wrong. Having played a 4-4-2 for a majority of their careers, it says a lot when you change things drastically and they can respond like they did. A lot of the year the girls would be asking questions to better understand what we wanted from them. This is a joy to have as a coach, a teaming willing to learn and wanting to get better.

         The success of our season was not without its hardships. I believe at one point during the season, seven of our starting eleven were hurt. I think the most team bonding we did was in the trainer’s office before and after games and practice. We didn’t let this be used as an excuse though, we persevered and when things got tough and our bodies hurt, we played together and showed what type of team we are capable of being. The challenge for next year will be to have that team show up every minute of every game, not just when our backs are against the wall.

       I am very proud of the team we fielded this year. I wouldn’t trade them in for any other team in the state. We have worked our tails off together in changing the culture of Seymour Soccer, and this year was another step in the right direction. These girls are the foundation builders of years to come. We have taught each other so much over the last two years, and to see these girls grow into the young adults they are is something very special. We have been very adamant about not just building soccer players here, but also productive members of society.

         For those of you who are leaving us, you will be missed very much by this coaching staff and your fellow teammates. It has been an honor to call myself your coach and be a part of your lives. And for you that are coming back, I am looking forward to what we can accomplish with another year of hard work.