girls varsity soccer forms a tight knit community

 By Noa Rejwan ‘28
The GOA Girls' Varsity Soccer Team is driven by a motivating and dedicated atmosphere that goes beyond the field. Coach Cohen, who has been coaching the varsity girls' soccer team for many years, helps the team develop their skills and teamwork. He teaches the girls how to play the game well and encourages them to stay focused and work hard during a game or practice. 

Captain Cayla McKay plays an important role in the team’s success by leading the team and helping everyone prepare for games. She shares motivational phrases like “Do your best,"  “Don't give up,” and “Keep pretending like the score is 0-0 so you still try your hardest” to encourage her teammates. Cayla believes retaining a positive mindset is crucial, especially during key moments in the game.
The rest of the seniors on the team also play a significant role, making everyone feel welcome, heard, and ready to play. 
The remainder of the roster includes Aly Biloon, Marissa Jacobs, Noga Arieh, Emily Maines, and Yaelle Messulan; Juniors Marley Fisher and Maya Footerman; Sophomores Morgan Sternthal, Layla Sharret and Kate Breslin; and Freshmen Rebecca Luftig and Noa Rejwan. 
These girls have built strong friendships during the season, as they share laughs and support each other during practices and games.
Practices and games happen from Monday to Thursday, and the team works hard to prepare. During each practice, they do passing, shooting and defensive drills. They stretch before and after practices or games to avoid injuries and stay flexible. Running laps is also part of their practice, helping them warm up and stay in shape. 
They focus on communication, calling each other's names when passing the ball, and cheering for one another, which helps build teamwork.
They understand that winning isn’t everything; trying their best and growing as players and friends is what truly matters. This positive attitude makes their time on the team enjoyable, and they look forward to each game.
One highlight of their season was a game against Orange in Newark, where they won with a score of 9-0. This victory shows their hard work and the strong sense of community in the team. Celebrating wins strengthens their bond and inspires them to support each other.
The experiences they share, both challenging and fun, create lasting memories that will stay with them long after the season ends.