St. Joseph’s girls soccer team opened the fall season with a 2-0 defeat at home against Juan Diego, a result that underscored the physical demands of the game.
A Test of Depth
With only 13 players suited up, the squad faced a depth issue that forced Coach Tom Evans to rely on a handful of versatile athletes. Injuries and the departure of two projected starters, including Sofia Evans who now plays for Division III Puget Sound, left the roster thinner than in previous years.
The match tested the team’s physicality early, as Juan Diego’s Presley LaHue opened the scoring in the first half and Lexi Wayman added the second goal with seven minutes remaining. Despite the early setback, the defense held firm for the final 40 minutes, with junior captain Sophia Ortiz and newcomers Kyla Hansler and Sophia Campbell anchoring the back line.
Looking Ahead
Coach Evans praised the resilience shown by players such as Anysia Pinchak, who contributed two goals in a recent 3-0 win, and freshman Lucia Evans, who will handle midfield duties and free kicks. The team plans to recruit additional players and returns to action on August 20 against Waterford in Sandy, hoping to build on the defensive cohesion they have begun to establish.