The Junior Varsity (JV) girls soccer kicked off their first game of the season on Tuesday, Dec. 3, against Saint Francis, losing 3-0. Last season, the team had 1 win, 10 losses and 1 tie. 

The Wildcats and Lancers went head-to-head in the first half of the game with a score of 0-0. But they were unable to respond in the second half, where the Lancers scored three goals to claim victory. 

“It was very nervous coming in the first game of the season,” freshman defender Charlotte Teague said.

Saint Francis is a renowned private high school also known for their athletic programs, including soccer. They regularly tend to excel in sports across the board, with many student-athletes committing to sports after high school. According to the Saint Francis Athletic website, three soccer players committed to college programs last year, including two at Stanford University and one at Chapman University. 

“[The team] was definitely nervous for Saint Francis,” Teague said.

The first half of the game was tightly contested, with both teams making close attempts by the forwards. However, Saint Francis came out strong in the second half, shifting momentum in their favor. 

“Something different from the first to the second half was communicating and doing well under pressure,” Teague said. 

Despite the loss, Teague noted that this first game helped the team determine lessons and objectives to fix in the upcoming season. 

“We can definitely communicate, be calm, and work together as a team,” Teague said. “Don’t rush, take your time and have a good first touch. First touches are important.”

Even with the defeat, the team found joy in the experience before, during and after the game. 

“Just playing was my favorite part,” Teague said. “Warming up, the bus ride over, and this group of girls.”

Girls soccer played Leigh on Dec. 6 and is preparing for an upcoming tournament on Dec. 14 as they try to build momentum for the season.  

“We have a great team which makes games fun,” Teague said.