By Gia Aiello ‘27

As the fall term winds down, it is important to reflect on the various fall sports teams’ achievements. From extremely close games to full swoops, the Wyoming Seminary girls’ soccer team has shown resilience, passion, and most importantly, teamwork. 

This year, the team showcased not only their athleticism but also their ability to overcome challenges and setbacks. All players faced challenges head-on–from tough opponents to rainy weather to balancing academics with sports. Each game proved as a testament to their determination, with every goal and save reflecting countless hours of practice and preparation.

Led by head coach Dr. Gardner, the team began their preseason in mid-August, determined to improve both individually and collectively. Late afternoon drills, early morning practices, and scrimmages pushed players to their limit in the best way possible. Through this time period, the team bonded. “One thing that’s unique to girls’ soccer is we have a really amazing bond that helps us succeed on and off the field,” said senior team captain Emma Butcher.

Several players emerged as key contributors this season, with Ella Stambaugh leading in goals and Gemma Ciravolo making crucial saves as a goalkeeper. “Being the goalkeeper, I get to be on the field while having a unique advantage point and have authority over my teammates in a leadership way to strive for them to be their best selves,” said Ciravolo. Their amazing performances inspired everyone on the team to strive and be their best. Team captains Mirabaai Reitsma and Emma Butcher also inspired everyone to do their best on and off the field. 

One standout moment this season was the back-and-forth game against Hanover Area on October 11th, ending in a 3-2 score. After the previous loss at senior night, everyone was ready to end the season on a win. Ella Stambaugh, a junior and top scorer, scored the winning goal with a mere 2 minutes to spare! The energy was apparent; everyone was cheering from the sidelines to the bench. This was a great game to end our season and advance into the playoffs.

This season would not have been made possible without the continued support from Dr. Gardner, as well as assistant coaches Ms. McLaughlin and Ms. Gabriel, who pushed the team to work harder but also have fun while playing. From stretching circles in practice to half-time talks during games, there was always laughter and good vibes. “I feel like we’ve all grown very close. There were a lot of laughs. It was very fun” said Stella Guesto, a freshman starter on the team.

With this chapter of Wyoming Seminary Girls Soccer ending, the team celebrates not just the victories but the amazing memories and friendships made. Here’s to another fantastic year of girls’ soccer and many more to come!