ND Dragons Playing Stellar Soccer

By: Megan Groo '25

The Notre Dame Dragons were represented well at the varsity soccer match against St. Vincent Ferrer on the bright morning of Saturday, October 22nd. The game was early, but the temperature was moderate. The team began warmups at 9:00, and promptly kicked off at 10:00. The ball flew through defense like in pinball, and it seemed like the Dragons had boundless energy. This spirit was due, in part, to the excitement surrounding what would come after the game. It was the senior game, meant to honor the older players who had dedicated so much of their time during high school to the sport.

The class of ‘23, including Maya Perez, Greta Denham, Bronwyn Kickasola, and Samantha Smith, will be sorely missed by the soccer team. Maya, who has been on Notre Dame soccer for her entire time at ND, has definitely been an asset and forms a strong defense, helping Bronwyn in goal protection, maintaining a shutout for nearly every game this season. During this season alone, the team has logged over 80 goals for, and only 3 goals against. Greta and Sam help on the other end of the field, scoring goals and maneuvering the ball to wings and forwards.

The first goal was a beautiful shot by Gianna Fasciano ‘24 that landed in the upper left corner of the goal. The goal was only about two and a half minutes into the first half. There were more shots on goal, but some impressive saves, and a whole lot of passing. After a long and tiring half, the center referee blew the whistle. At halftime, the team huddled up to talk about the half and how to improve. After a quick break, they were back on the field and ready to get back to it. The first half, the sun had been facing into the ND soccer team’s eyes, but at half, they switched sides and now had the advantage. During the second half, there were a lot more through passes for wingers to run onto, and lots of crosses and impressive skills in the attacking half. The second goal was the result of a punt by Bronwyn Kickasola ‘23 that bounced over the opposing defense and was tapped in by Megan Groo ‘25. On the defensive end, there were a lot of lofted balls coming over the midfielders’ heads, which the defenders caught before the Ferrer offense could even get there. The final score was 2-0, but the Dragons made tons of shots and played well in the offensive half for the majority of the game.

The game was a fulfilling experience for the team, whose seniors were given roses and individualized posters to reminisce about their time with ND soccer. However, don’t worry! The senior players aren’t going anywhere just yet, with playoffs coming up and then the championships! Your ND Dragons will continue to make the school proud in the next steps of the league.

Photos Courtesy of Maya Perez '23

Edited by: Cooper Winkler '26, Katarina Radulovic '24, Natalia Cseh '23, and Ms. Brilliant

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