Over the past years, the women’s soccer team has been increasingly improving and growing. However, speculations have risen over whether this season will be as spectacular as the years prior due to a regional switch-up. Now, North Atlanta High School will play schools that are expected to be overwhelmingly challenging opponents. With the loss of multiple seniors who had significant playing time in the 2024 season, it will be difficult to rebuild the starting lineup quickly, but there is nothing that the lady dubs cannot do.
Lucia Touwsma has stepped up to be senior captain alongside Quinn Alpers. After arranging a few preseason scrimmages, Touwsma and Alpers have worked to determine how this coming season will go. Tryouts will be held starting January 27th and the season games will quickly pick up following tryouts. “It will be a difficult adjustment, but I am confident that we will quickly get back into the groove and have a season full of victory,” said Touwsma.
The coaches this year, similar to years prior, will be Gregory Baeza and Ted Colburn. Head Coach and NAHS physics teacher, Baeza roams the halls eager for the season to begin. Baeza has coached here at NAHS for five years. His love for camaraderie and competition drew him into becoming a soccer coach, especially after coming from a soccer family. Baeza and Coldburn work together throughout the season to enhance the success of the soccer program at NAHS. “While my title is head coach, the real brains of the program is Ted Colburn, one of the best coaches in the state and beyond”, said Baeza.
The best part of playing a sport is the friendships that emerge. Individual strengths in each player mean nothing without the ability to work together. Due to the track record of a tight-knit team, this season will be no different. It is remarkable to see how quickly those on both JV and varsity can come together and make something special on the field. Junior Roddey Bird is among the many players who are excited for the season to kick off. “It is such a good environment at games, on the bus, at practices, and on the field because we all love each other”, said Bird.
Ultimately, this season will contain yet another year of laughs and friendship. Between the leadership from the captains, the coaching from Baeza and Coldburn, the skills of each player, and the bonds that will be created, there is no doubt that there will be multiple victories.
