Senior day for women’s soccer

The women’s soccer team held their senior day celebrations at Jess Dow Field on Saturday, Sept. 27. The team faced the Purple Knights of Saint Michael’s in front of their families and supporters. 

Before the game, seniors were honored with a walk out featuring flowers and framed photos. It was a bittersweet moment for the seniors who have sacrificed so much for the team and sport they love. 

“We’ve been through so many things together. We’ve worked so hard together. We’ve seen the best of each other, the worst of each other,” Head Coach Adam Cohen said. 

Cohen will see off six seniors this year. 

Forwards Shianna Reeves and Nicky Deslauriers, who have appeared in 45 and 52 games respectively, will move on. 

Defender Mackenzie McCormack, who has appeared in 48 games, and midfielder Aimee Girard, who has appeared in 59 games, will both graduate. 

The two captains: defender Shelby Green, who played 44 games for the Owls, and midfielder Olivia Jones, who, since transferring last year, started in all 25 possible games, are also leaving the team. 

Jones is a leader now, but just last year, she was a newcomer relying on her team for support. 

“It was the greatest transition I could have hoped for. The girls were supportive. They kept it high level and pushed me to compete to be my best,” Jones said. 

Jones and her fellow seniors are not just graduating from school or moving on from a team. They are leaving their second family. 

“The team are my best friends. I love coming to practice. It always puts a smile on my face, no matter how my day is going,” Girard said. 

The game itself was frustrating. After the Owls allowed a goal in the first half, forward Elizabeth Bishop, a freshman, headed home a corner in the 69th minute to tie the game at one.

The Purple Knights would score three more goals in the final 20 minutes, solidifying a final score of 4-1. 

It was a lackluster result on a celebratory day. The team was frustrated, but they have a lengthy season ahead and a support system that will not quit. 

“We always stick together. No matter what happens, we always have each other’s backs. That’s something I won’t ever take for granted,” Deslauriers said. 

The seniors will trek on together and in support of their teammates. After graduating, they will take the lessons learned on the field with them into their adult lives. 

They will be able to cherish these moments with their friends forever. 

“I love them like sisters,” Girard said.