After a longtime perseverance of nearly 15 years since the 2008-2009 Central Section Girls Soccer Championship won against Central Valley Christian with an ending score of 3-2, the Varsity Girls’ Soccer Team this year has attained the Valley Championship title for Selma High. This March 4th, they suffered a loss against Oakland Tech in the playoffs with a score of 3-1 as they transitioned into state. Despite the rough start, the team is seeking to rebound with their unanimous cooperation of motivation they have been playing with. The team is continuing to focus on their key influences and fundamentals to keep them on their feet.
“For me, my entire team motivates me,” said Lilliana Huerta, a senior captain of the team who plays the positions of forward and midfield. “All throughout the playoffs, I saw my teammates playing with everything they had and that is exactly what kept me motivated to play.”
Their intertwinement between sportsmanship and leadership through their practices and games stood tall with the effort they exerted to keep maneuvering through playoffs.
After their match against Kingsburg High School, they exceeded in two successful wins that would select them for the semi-finals. On February 15, winning 3-1 against Hoover High School and on the 19th against Arvin High School with the same score. The atmosphere grew with more advice and encouragement, as the next game would be pivotal. This would mark and determine whether or not they make the finals.
The team won on February 21 against Lindsay High School in the semifinals, to then possibly achieve the title of Valley Champions. They came home to the Selma High Bears that night with a winning score of 4-1. Head coach Luis Zamora and assistant coaches Ruby Frutis and Anela Zamora remained dedicated with the rest of the team, while keeping the mood lively.
“On the way to the game, everyone was in a good mood,” said Destiny Rivera, a senior and defender, “just messing around and having fun.”
Only a few days later on the 25th, they went up against Miramonte High School at Bakersfield to be titled Valley Champions. The game ended with a score of 3-0 with Starlette Ordonez striking the first one into the net that was followed by two from Lacy Vasquez from two free kicks.
“Being Valley Champions was so surreal. It was a moment you’ll cherish forever,” Katie Reyes, a sophomore midfielder conveyed.
This everlasting moment that will remain in the team was shared and formed by the bond that gets tighter every year within each person through the genuine connections that reach out to every individual that takes part in traversing their goals.
With the closure of the Central Section and nearing the end point of the season, the team and coaches are now champions, but will continue to work for further sensational wins in the future of the program.
“Winning the valley championship has really brought us closer as a team, and I’m really looking forward to next year,” stated Lainey Davis, a junior and midfielder.
