The Highlands girls soccer program is poised for a comeback that has been a long time coming. After a season was canceled in 2023 because the roster dwindled to just six players, the team endured a two‑year probation that forced it to play an independent schedule.
This fall the squad will field 28 athletes, a dramatic increase that reflects both community support and a renewed commitment to the sport. The growth from a handful of participants to nearly three dozen has injected fresh energy into daily practices and team dynamics.
Senior midfielder Natalie Dickerson, who will be entering her final year of high school, will captain the side, bringing experience and leadership to a group that has embraced a positive mindset. Her presence on the field is complemented by a deep bench of talent that includes rising seniors Ella Prager and Alyssa Jameson.
Coach Seth Dickerson has been emphasizing game awareness and skill development during preseason practices, which began on August 17 and will culminate in scrimmages against Apollo‑Ridge and Riverview before the regular season opens on August 28.
Section 2‑2A Showdown
The team will navigate a rugged Section 2‑2A schedule, facing twelve conference opponents, including traditional powerhouses such as Elizabeth Forward, Yough and Southmoreland. Each match promises a test of resilience, but the players approach every game with the belief that continuous improvement will translate into wins.
Despite a challenging 2‑7‑1 record in 2024 and a 7‑9 finish the year before, the players and staff remain focused on teamwork and the belief that this season can mark a turning point. The combination of seasoned leadership, expanded roster depth, and a coaching staff dedicated to skill refinement sets the stage for a promising campaign.