COVID-19 has not diminished the competitive edge for the Lady Eagles soccer team, despite various changes.
“We had to remove a good amount of games from our schedule,” said sophomore Virginia Creech. “From what I can tell, I still don’t think we have a 100% final schedule because we never know what teams will drop their season next.”
The NAIA tournament has been moved to the spring.
The team has taken a number of COVID-19 precautions including a later start to the season, wearing masks and social distancing when possible.
“Even though there are restrictions, that has not stopped the team from getting to build relationships and work hard to win some big games,” said junior Olivia Ruckriegel. “We are all so filled with gratitude to get to have a season that we come out ready to work hard and compete.”
Players say just having a season has increased their drive and sense of comradery.
“Because of the season being so up in the air, I want to make every second count in practices and games,” said junior Elizabeth Sparks. “At any point in the season, they could call it off.”
“We are all really focusing on encouraging each other both on and off the field,” said Ruckriegel. “With so much isolation and added stress because of COVID, it has been so important for us to remind each other that our team is a family that is for each other both on and off the field. Taking the focus off ourselves and focusing on playing for our seniors during such an uncertain time has been super important.”
Though certain ways of operating have changed, the joy of playing the game remains.
“No matter how I’m involved, I love being a part of a goal being scored,” said Creech. The team’s home opener against Marian University is this Saturday, Sept. 12 at 1 p.m.
