Fall sports are over and now it is time for Warrior spring sports teams to test the waters in our new region. The girls varsity soccer team is led by head coach Robert Bramlett and community coaches Tara Doherty and Mike DeMatteo. The group of more than 20 dedicated athletes is ready to step into a season of hyper-competitive play.

After a winning 4-1 scrimmage against Decatur on Feb. 3, the team had its first regular season game on Feb. 7 against Druid Hills. Team captains are senior Bonnie Shea and junior Lizzie Mayfield. Both say they are aware of the challenges ahead and that all team members are prepared to do all they can to repeat the program’s recent winning ways. After securing regions crowns for two successive years, the team is aiming to repeat the feat. Pressure to continue that streak rests squarely on the captain’s shoulders.

A large task this year will be replacing the play of Emma Kurtz, Caroline Saltmarsh and Claire Shea, last year’s stellar crop of departed seniors.

All three played crucial roles and acted as team leaders. “I noticed last year that the team functioned very individualized,” said Bonnie Shea, younger sister to departed captain Claire Shea. “This year we hope to function as a family and play as a team instead of as 11 separate players.”

Beyond internal dynamics, the Warriors have to take on play in a new region. Moving from 5A to 6A will require new coaching tactics and strategy but the same kind of determined mindset. “The new region doesn’t change the way we prepare for each game,” said Mayfield. “We go into every game with the same mindset and do not let the opponent get into our heads.”

Notwithstanding challenges, coaches and players are aiming high. Team goals are to reach the region playoffs and qualify for the state tournament. They are unified, aiming for the fight, and rallying around this year’s theme: “North Atlanta Girls Soccer: “Savage not Average.”