In the last issue of The Echo, I had the honor to write a piece about the girls’ soccer team. The interviews with the captains and coach, Mr. Tirado, emphasized the incredible morale of this team. Their constant dedication and positive attitude shined through as they spoke about their desire to win the 2A championships this season. Officially a decade after their first and only championship, I am happy to report that the Dragons have reclaimed their victory.
The girls’ varsity soccer team finished their regular season with an 8–1–1 record. Advancing into the playoffs, their first matchup was against Ralph McKee High School/Staten Island Tech. The Dragons broke their “playoff curse” and won the game 4–0. Quarterfinals were next, and it was a rematch against
Louis D. Brandeis High School. After beating them 2–1 in the regular season, the Dragons anticipated a close game. Regardless, they persisted past 0–0 at halftime, and scored three goals in the second half. The anticipation of the championship game increased as the Dragons approached the semifinals. Only three days later, they played against Bard Manhattan. This was another rematch for the Dragons, who had played Bard in one of the most aggressive matches of the regular season. The Dragons showed up to this game with that same determination. Fortunately, with the return of two players from previous injuries, they were able to clinch a 2–1 win.
The girls’ team did it! They made it all the way to the championship game.
The Dragons prepared for their match against the Eleanor Roosevelt High School Huskies (EIRo) on a cold Saturday evening. Many of the veterans on the Dragons team had played ElRo in past years, but this was their first matchup this season. Nerves were through the roof with the pressure to reclaim the title, but there is no doubt that HSMSE fans showed up for them. This game had by far the most turnout all season, with two full bleachers of family, teachers, peers, and friends. In the first half of the game, HSMSE racked up the scoreboard to 3–0. The first goal was tapped in by Lucy Azaransky (‘28). Following were two goals by Lila Printz (‘27), with assists by Rebecca Rha (‘25) and Lucy Azaransky (‘28). The Dragons kept on fighting through the second half, only letting one goal in by ElRo. After an exhilarating match, the HSMSE Girls Varsity Soccer Team walked away with the official title of the 2A Girls Soccer Varsity Champions!
Fans noted that both the chemistry and communication between the players on the field was stronger than they’d expected. The starting lineup for the championship game—along with the majority of the season—was two seniors, two juniors, three sophomores, and four freshmen. While some of the Dragons had years of experience playing together, the introduction of new talent posed a possible hurdle. Of course, some adjustments had to be made to ensure that each individual’s talents were optimized, but they quickly re-established a rhythm. The team’s wins were not just a result of the talent or the work ethic, but the guidance of the upperclassmen and their trust in the lowerclassmen.
Mr. Tirado and the junior captains are optimistic for next season as these underclassmen’s talents continue to develop. Until then, they will celebrate their win, which brought a 5th PSAL championship title to HSMSE!