By Cora Aitkenhead – Staff Reporter

Law and Foran came together on September 3 at their annual girls and boys soccer doubleheader to fundraise for the Avery’s Little Army Foundation.  

Avery Marie Lafferty, a dedicated soccer player and inspiration of Avery’s Little Army. Avery was diagnosed with pediatric brain cancer in December of 2021. After a two-year fight, Avery passed away at age 12 on July 12, 2024. 

“On and off the field she was a great teammate,” Avery’s older sister, Lexi Lafferty said. “Avery was the bravest girl I knew.”

The mission of Avery’s Little Army is to help support those in similar situations to Avery, and to raise money in order to advance pediatric cancer research. 

“I hope that with this event people realize the impact pediatric cancer has on children,” Lexi Lafferty said. “We also want them to realize that one person can make an impact in our community.”

This event also marked the beginning of Lexi Lafferty’s Foran soccer career as a freshman on varsity, where she got to spread her and her sister’s passion for soccer. 

This game kicked off Law’s season with a 4-0 win for the girls varsity team and 3-1 win for the boys varsity team.

While the wins meant a lot to Law, what meant more was how this event united the two town rivalry schools, and raised awareness for pediatric cancer.

“We are honored to have been part of the Avery’s Little Army game to raise money and awareness for pediatric brain cancer,” Law girls soccer coach Mrs. Francisco said. “When it comes to helping one another, we really are ‘One Milford’.”

Law boys soccer coach Mr. Gruber also found the event impactful, displaying a valuable lesson to him and his team.

“We will always remember Avery and help that family whenever they are in need and no matter what a game is only a game but life and doing the right things on and off the field is most important for student athletes at Law and in the Milford Community,” Gruber said.

By the end of the event, it became clear that Avery’s legacy not only had the power to support those in situations like her’s, but it had the power to influence a once divided community to unite and share their passion for the beautiful game. 

“I loved to see how two separate schools could come together to support Avery,” Lexi Lafftery said. “This helps us honor her and improve awareness around pediatric cancer.”

This game was also senior Taylor Coretti’s first game as a Law girls soccer captain.

Coretti felt it was important to put aside town rivalry, and to unite as one team for this important event. 

“Even though we are very competitive when it comes to Foran, we put that behind us to honor Avery because this is a very important cause to bring awareness to,” Coretti said. “It was really great to know that both schools were able to come together to raise money and support this cause.”

To get involved with and/or donate to the Avery’s Little Army Foundation, go to the Avery’s Little Army website at www.averyslittlearmy.org/.