By Dveen Hagopian
The Granada Hills Charter (GHC) girls soccer team has had an incredible season this year. They recently became the CIF Los Angeles City Section D1 champions for their third consecutive season. The team played against Cleveland High School and beat the Cavaliers by a 2-1 score. Senior Tatiana Coleman gave GHC a 1-0 lead, and senior Stephanie Cardenas scored the tie breaking goal.
This is a huge accomplishment for the team, and it is well deserved considering the great amount of effort put in by the members.
Although the team always prepares for games throughout the year, COVID-19 posed new challenges this year to find time for practice. So, when they did get the opportunity to practice and train, they had to work extra hard by pushing themselves and remaining dedicated.
Every team member is expected to try their best, remain focused and competitive, and work as hard at practice as they do during games. That said, this team also remains encouraging of one another. Before game day, the team even has what is known as “Pasta Parties,” where they come together to nourish their bodies and bond.
According to senior Abigail Rivas, these days are extremely important for the team.
“Those times where we all just get to hang out has been crucial for our team chemistry and has built so much trust within the team,” Rivas said.
Before their game against Cleveland, the team beat El Camino Real in the semifinals, which helped prepare and excite them for their upcoming game.
“I felt unstoppable,” Rivas said, regarding their semifinals win.“The adrenaline running through my body and the roar of the crowd makes me feel like I am on top of the world. It truly is an unmatched feeling, and I love it more than anything.”
It is clear that the entire team is passionate and dedicated to their sport, as well as close with each other, and that sense of teamwork is reflected in their great success.
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