This year, Terra Linda’s girls varsity soccer team made history by not only making it to the semi-finals, which is unprecedented, but also by winning the NCS Division 4 Championship. They started playing together in November, and Head Coach Dylan Arroyo noted the “depth” of the team, emphasizing the high number of quality players. As reflected in their performance this year, the girls displayed not only great teamwork, but incredible dedication.
Junior Daisy Ruiz, who scored the game winning goal of the NCS championship, highlighted the strong connection the team shared, helping lead them to their remarkable triumph. Ruiz shared, “Some of the factors that led us to the win were the connection the team had, being able to communicate on the field, and working together as a team.” The girls soccer team demonstrated the importance of having a tight knit bond, built on team dinners and watching the boys soccer games together, which proved to be one of their most successful assets.
Ruiz described the team as “hardworking,” a quality displayed through their long practices and even longer games. After their NCS win, the team celebrated by immediately hugging and high-fiving each other, soaking in the victory. “Winning in that moment felt amazing, like all the work we had put into our entire season had just paid off,” senior and captain Sammie Foley shared. “I remember going to every teammate of mine and giving them a big hug, while simultaneously screaming and smiling.”
Freshman Hailey Lauster explained that although the team had a strong connection, many challenges arose throughout the season. Several players were injured during the season, including Division 1 commit, junior Remi David. “It was hard when we would lose important players that played big roles in winning games,” said Lauster. Foley added, “This challenge wasn’t just about losing a good player, but finding how to stay motivated when you know your team isn’t at its full strength.” However, the girls were able to overcome these challenges by keeping a strong mindset and an even harder work ethic.
Another challenge that the team was faced with was the shift in player dynamics. This season marked the annual loss of seniors and the addition of new freshmen, meaning a lot of the girls were unfamiliar with each other. Extra work was needed to get comfortable with each other, which was primarily done through their team dinners. Lauster noted, “Our team dinners really helped us bond both on and off the field.”
The historic achievement will continue to motivate the team and provide new opportunities, such as more funding and tournament opportunities for the 2026-2027 season. Foley shared, “I think when coming off a season like this one, it can seem stressful to want to try and do just as well, but I would advise each of the returning players to stay motivated, push each other, and never give up. I think that those aspects will help the team accomplish their goals and do just as well–if not better–than before.” Foley really emphasized that to continue being successful, they need to keep putting in their all, always “giving their 100% every practice and game”.
The girl’s victory has left a lasting mark in Terra Linda’s history, proving that hard work and dedication does pay off. The impact of this championship will continue to inspire future players, and motivate them to always continue to put in their all. Congrats Terra Linda girls varsity soccer!