Girls varsity soccer advances to NCS playoffs

Players and coaches reflect on the team’s undefeated season and their mindset entering the NCS tournament; the team was eliminated at home in the second round.

Angelica Guerrero

Staff Writer

Following a dominating regular season, the AHS Girls Varsity Soccer team established itself as a formidable presence in MVAL. The team dominated league play with 12 wins and 0 losses, leading all teams in both goals scored and allowed. As the team left the regular season behind and entered the NCS tournament as the second seed, its focus was more intense than ever.

The top teams from Northern California come together to compete for a championship title in the North Coast Section (NCS) playoffs. The NCS playoffs, scheduled after the league season concludes, is the premier tournament for high school soccer teams in the area. In contrast to league competition during the regular season, when teams play local opponents, NCS brings fresh competitors and a win-or-go-home style that puts a team’s endurance and flexibility to the test.

The team’s efforts against Newark Memorial HS earlier in the winter season demonstrated its ability to address recurring errors and develop as a team. AHS pushed to a hard-earned tie on December 19th, finding it challenging to get past Newark Memorial’s defense. However, the team has shown commendable chemistry and skill throughout the season, overcoming challenges and refining its game at every opportunity. By the time the Eagles played Newark Memorial again on January 28, they won 3-0.

They have continuously improved their performance under the leadership of the team captains, Mackenzie Madina (11), Arden Rose (12), and Abigail Peterman (11) and under Coach Pat’s direction. However, given the increased competition for NCS tournaments, the team approached the postseason aware that its work wasn’t finished.

Throughout the season, the team’s undefeated record showcased its tireless work. According to Coach Pat, the team’s growth was evident in both its technical skills and mental toughness. “From the start, we knew we had a talented group, but what really set this team apart was their ability to adapt and learn from each game,” he explained. “Whether it was tightening up our defense, improving our communication, or working on finishing under pressure, they never stopped pushing themselves to get better.”

Coach Pat also emphasized the importance of staying composed under pressure as the team progresses through the NCS tournament. “At this stage, it’s about trusting our training and playing with confidence,” he said.

In practices leading up to the playoff matchup, players have been working on set pieces and defensive organization to prepare for tougher competition. “We know every game is going to be a battle, so we’re making sure we stay focused and support each other,” said senior Evanny Moreno,” discussing the team’s approach to the tournament.

Players newer to the atmosphere of NCS playoffs also echoed a similar mindset as the team approached matchups that are significantly more testing than those in league play. “Obviously, we want to win, but at the end of the day, we’re just lucky to be out here playing the sport we love. Even when things get tough, I try to remind myself that this is what we do for fun,” said Mannat Bahia (10).

Despite the fact its playoff journey concluded in a hard-fought 0-1 loss to Petaluma High School on February 21st in the second round, the AHS Girls Varsity Soccer Team has many things to be proud of—a second consecutive year with an undefeated league record, a demonstrated ability to adapt and grow in every game, and a season culminating in one of the team’s first-ever appearances in the second round of NCS.