By Conner Orr

Throughout the season, the girls have proven that they are real contenders to win state. They defeated Ridgefield, the defending state champions, 1-0 earlier in the season and have only allowed three goals all year. The team has also proven their ability to put the ball in the back of the net as they have scored 57 goals so far.

The girls are coming off a third place finish in state from last year and have been using that as motivation. This team understands the potential that it has, and the CR Soccer program prides itself on being one of the most successful organizations in the state. Although the team only has eight seniors, three fewer than last season, many younger players have stepped up and have proven themselves many times this season. 

For example, the leading goal scorer and the assist leader, Makayla Hundt and Olivia Alvord respectively, are both sophomores. There are also many freshmen on the team that have contributed, not only in goals and assists, but with their on field work ethic and drive. 

Their upcoming schedule is tough as they play both Ridgefield (10-1-1) and R.A. Long (8-3) during this last five game stretch, however, if they win out then they will win league. After that, the team will play in districts and look to capture a district title after not having won it in the past couple of seasons. Then, if they qualify for state, they will play to add another star to the crest and win their sixth state championship in program history.

Regardless, as they look to finish the season strong, they will also look to prepare themselves for what is to come: the postseason. The girls will need to take it game by game and prepare mentally for the upcoming weeks, as the season only gets harder when the postseason comes around.