The WHS Varsity Girls Soccer Team has accomplished immense success, winning a total of four state titles. While this success stems from their exceptional skills and determination on the field, the primary cause of their accomplishments lies in their team camaraderie and connection.
The team’s chemistry is a point of pride and is what truly sets them apart from other teams. Head coach Alex Schmidt said, “Team chemistry is everything for us. We’ve both won and lost big games, and it’s the chemistry we’ve built that carries us through both moments.”
One of the most distinguished annual traditions for the team is their trip to Fairview Lake during preseason, where they build tight-knit connections with one another. “The underlying theme is always the same, which is to build chemistry and get to know one another,” Schmidt said. “Spending 72 hours away from Westfield, with limited cell phone service, really allows players to connect and learn about their teammates.”
In addition to the strong start in the preseason, the collaborative culture and opportunities continue throughout the season through the team’s carpools, where ten groups are assigned and new friendships are formed.
Senior tri-captain Olivia DiGregorio detailed the significance of these carpools as the season progresses. “Carpools build our bond because they allow us to become close to the people around us,” DiGregorio said. “You naturally start to trust them and feel like they’re your best friends with all of the time you spend together.”
The carpools also give teammates the opportunity to further build connections with one another while taking breaks and having fun outside of practice. Senior Andie Janota said, “We literally do everything together, we drive together, listen to our pregame songs together, and go get food before and after practices.”
The bond that is developed beyond the field throughout the season is reflective of their performance on the field during their competitive game schedule. While the 8-0 Blue Devils have skillful ball control and gameplay, what makes them so successful is the trust built by one another.
“Our team chemistry is one of the most important contributors to our performance on the field,” said Janota. “Especially at Fairview, we are forced to communicate as a team through different activities, which gets us ready for the season. The time we spend together off the field transfers over to our achievement on the field.”
While the Blue Devils continue to celebrate their success as the season goes on, the connection built between the players is key for the undefeated team. Schmidt said, “The coaches and I are proud of the high standard we set for our players and the expectation that, no matter the outcome, your teammates are the first to celebrate with you or pick you up and help you move on.”
