Soccer is a highly competitive sport that constantly drives athletes to push their limits and strive for growth. Few sports can evoke such a powerful mix of emotions all at once. On the soccer field at Lenoir City High School, the game is more than just goals, wins and losses. For the girls who play, soccer is a place where friendships are made, challenges are faced and school pride comes alive. For many students at LCHS, the sport has become an important part of the school community. Sports are more than just something players do after school. It can be a tradition passed down through families and a way for athletes to connect with the people around them. Having family members who have played the sport, can inspire younger players to continue that tradition and create their own memories on the field. Laura Deleon (9) describes her outlook on what got her to start playing soccer. “My dad motivated me to play soccer but my whole family also played soccer so I wanted to continue the tradition. I really enjoy playing it. My friends are on the team and we have so much fun at games and practices,” Deleon said. Although soccer players spend a lot of time practicing and competing, having other interests can give athletes a chance to relax and try something different. Skills from other sports can even help soccer players, such as coordination, speed, strength and teamwork. Keysi Pineda (10) also has interests outside of soccer. Although she loves soccer, sometimes other sports can be intriguing. “If I could play any other sport just for fun it would be softball. Probably because I have a good arm to throw the ball,” Pineda said. Pineda plays left wing and playing as left wing requires players to use their speed. Being comfortable with both feet can also give a player more options when passing, dribbling or taking a shot. “My favorite position to play is left wing. I'd say because I can dribble the ball and switch it to my right and shoot better with my right rather than my left even though I can do both. I have scored many of my goals this way and people seem to be very impressed when seeing me,” Pineda said. Each player has their own person to look up to, and for Lillian Lambert (10) it is her mother. It is important to remember that outside of the field everyone has their own life story to tell. “My mom is the person I look up to because I see how hard she works and I think to myself that I wanna work like her. She has done many things for me and I am very grateful,” Lambert said. Stories like these show that the girls soccer team at LCHS is made up of more than just athletes. Each player has their own reasons for playing, their own interests and people who inspire them. Together, they bring different personalities and experiences to the team. Soccer gives these girls an opportunity to compete, grow and represent their school while creating memories that can last long after the final whistle. By: Valeria Morales