It’s officially soccer season, and these lady Raptors are ready to hit the field running. Coached by brothers Alister and Doug DeLong, this year’s Women’s Varsity team consists of 25 players, and JV, coached by Jason Kramer, has a roster of around 17. For most of the team, preseason practices began in January at Ravenel. However, students who play winter sports couldn’t officially join the team until their current seasons were over. Now that the team is complete and ready to go, we are beyond excited to see what the girls can do this season.
While we welcome this year’s new players, the 2025 season is sure to be an adjustment after the loss of eight seniors from the previous team. All-state player and defensive mid, Charlie Zaifert, is just one example of the players who will be missed out on the field this season. Nevertheless, new freshmen and sophomore additions to Varsity already prove to be strong replacements. Although the team mourns the loss of last year’s star goalie Eliza Compton, returning Varsity player and senior, Lindsey Griffin, is pumped and ready to take on the challenge of following in her footsteps. In light of her new role, Lindsey adds that, “I have always looked up to Eliza as a mentor, and will do my best to carry on her legacy.” That’s the spirit, #1! Furthermore, the loss of these illustrious seniors includes Po’s previous caretaker, Lilly Murphy, and requires that the tradition be passed on to one lucky player from this year’s senior class. At the end of last year, Lilly selected Eliza Thorn to be the new caretaker, and she has already done an amazing job making sure Po makes an appearance at every event, and even provided him with a new home!
Aside from an updated roster, another big change the girls will notice this year is the removal of schools Oceanside and Bishop England from the 2A Region schedule. This long-awaited and appropriate adjustment puts Magnet girls on top for projected games won in their region. The team beat Myrtle Beach High School 5-0 in their first scrimmage this past Thursday, with two out of the five goals from star forward and senior Captain, the one and only, Mattie Vermette. Additionally, the traditional alumni game was held this past weekend, featuring former players including Mr. Perlmutter, along with current players from both the girls and boys teams. As the team gets into the swing of things at practice, they continue to prepare for a successful season ahead. Mattie Vermette says, “I am excited to make my final memories on the team and win that state championship!” Another key player in the midfield and junior Captain, Madeline Moye, says her motto for the team is “going for 7,” because along with Mattie, she thinks the AMHS girls have a good chance at winning state this year!
Regardless of the season’s outcome, there is great potential amongst both girls JV and Varsity teams, so come out to D4 or Ravenel to support your Lady Raptors at their upcoming games!
