Historic Milestone
The Gaylord High girls soccer squad has etched its name into the school’s record books, capturing a share of the Big North Conference title for the first time since 2002. The victory follows an 8‑0 win over Alpena that set up a much‑anticipated rematch with longtime rivals Petoskey.
With a final ledger of 15‑2‑1 and a goal differential of 83‑14 across 18 matches, the team has combined offensive firepower with a stingy defense. Their only blemishes have been two narrow defeats, but the rest of the season has been marked by consistency and dominance.
Home Field Advantage
The squad stands 9‑0‑1 at Gaylord Community Field, turning the familiar grass into a fortress that opponents find difficult to breach. The unbeaten home stretch underscores the team’s ability to thrive under familiar conditions.
Rematch with Petoskey
A district title showdown with Petoskey looms large. In 2024 the two sides met in a penalty‑kick thriller that saw Gaylord emerge victorious, ending an 18‑year drought for a district crown. Last season, Petoskey turned the tables with a 1‑0 win, adding a layer of narrative intrigue to the upcoming clash.
Pressure as Privilege
Team captain Emma Horsell‑Sehl has been vocal about the mindset that fuels the group. “Pressure is a privilege,” she told teammates, a sentiment that encapsulates the squad’s approach to the high stakes ahead. Seniors Josie Bensinger, Khloe VanOosten, Ella Cherwinski, Raygen Drzewiecki, Callie English, Chris Adams and Dylan Jespersen have each contributed to the collective effort as they chase an undefeated home finish and a potential double title.