Shooting for Success: Fruita Girls Soccer

Throughout the past few years, the Girls Soccer Program has found a lot of success and the amount of support for the team is continuously growing. With the upcoming season quickly approaching coaches players, and fans are excited to see what this year is going to hold.

Last school year, girls soccer had a great season. With an undefeated season for both Varsity and JV, the Wildcats were the South Western League Champions and they held the number 4 seed spot heading into playoffs. Unfortunately, the teams playoff journey was short and ended in the first round as they lost in overtime.

Even after that tough loss, the team morale was high and it was obvious how much everyone cared for each other. The family aspect of this program is what holds everyone together and makes them so successful.

Junior outside back, Carli Dare says, “Our loss in playoffs last year is what motivates everyone to have a great season this year. The goal is to go way farther in playoffs and grow as teammates and players.

As last year’s season ended, it was also time for former coaches, Alex Garza and Taylor Bruno to step down after 4 years of coaching. Now the program is run by Boys Coach and Fruita 8/9 art teacher, Ethan Johnson. The change was bittersweet according to players.

“Everyone is sad that Alex and Bruno are stepping down but we are all super excited to see what Mr. Johnson is going to do for the program and we expect to have a lot of success for the season ahead.” Junior outside mid, Autumn Smith.

Johnson has coached the boys for numerous seasons, and was formerly coaching the Central Warriors girls team. After Garza stepped down, it was a great time for Johnson to transition into running both the boys and girls program for Fruita.  

Practice is already in full swing for the spring season. Pre season has started with practices Monday through Thursday from 3:15 to 5:00 afterschool. These are open practices and everyone is encouraged to come out and play.

“Preseason is a great time for everyone to get better and have fun before season actually starts. There is a lot of practice time but the environment is super fun and everyone has a great attitude this year.” says Sophomore Audrey Geer.

Regular Season games will begin at the end of March and until then, the girls will continue to work hard so that they can find even more success than last season. Practice is key and coach Johnson is excited about the commitment and work level of all the girls so far. It is obvious that every player is dedicated and want to get better for their team and that is what is going to take the girls soccer team far this season.