Grace Ward, a senior defender from Portsmouth High School, has been named the 2026 Seacoast high school girls soccer Preseason Player of the Year after a communitywide online vote that drew thousands of ballots.
Leadership and Legacy
Ward capped her high school career as team captain last season, guiding the Clippers to a strong finish and earning a Division I all‑state honorable mention. Her influence extends beyond statistics, shaping the squad’s work ethic and confidence.
A Close Contest
The vote tally placed Hazel Martin of Marshwood High School in second with 1,778 votes, followed by Exeter’s Harper Levitsky in third with 449, Oyster River’s Hayden MacNeill in fourth with 351, and Winnacunnet’s Molly Houlihan in fifth with 298. Ward’s 3,008 votes represented 46 percent of the total, underscoring both popularity and the breadth of support across the region.
Local coaches and teammates alike point to her defensive acumen, tactical awareness and ability to rally younger players as key factors behind the vote. As the season approaches, many expect her leadership to shape not only her team’s performance but also the broader conversation about defensive excellence in high school soccer.
Looking Ahead
With the preseason accolade in hand, Ward is poised to lead her club through a demanding schedule while balancing academic commitments and college recruitment interest. Observers note that her continued development could set a new benchmark for defensive players in the Seacoast area.