By Penny Timmeny – Staff Reporter

Senior Abigail Merenda has reached the end of her high school soccer career after countless memories and hours on the field. 

As the season ends, Merenda has begun to look back on her team and what the sport has meant to her. She spent her high school years developing her skills, building relationships with teammates, and learning lessons both on and off the field. 

“My favorite part of the season this year was the connection my team and I formed,” Merenda said. “It made the season so much more special, especially since it’s my last.”

Throughout the season, Merenda learned that being a part of a team is more than just winning games.

“I will miss so much about the season, but I will miss most of our team dynamic and how we always ended the day with laughter,” Merenda said.

The friendships and memories Merenda made along the way will make her final high school soccer season one she’ll always look back on. Merenda has had such a positive attitude this season and such a beneficial impact on the team.

While Merenda was not named a captain at the beginning of the year, she continued to work hard and eventually earned the title of captain during the season.

“She didn’t let not getting chosen to be a captain be a reason to not to be motivated – it actually made her more motivated,” senior Sam Matist said. “She was dedicated and worked hard to achieve her goals.”

Head Coach Mrs. Francisco witnessed Merenda’s dedication and growth throughout the season.

“Abby is a go-getter – she is always looking to improve and help her teammates improve as well,” Francisco said. “She works hard in practice and even harder in the game.”

Merenda is not playing soccer next year in college, but she is looking forward to playing club sports. 

“I won’t give up on my soccer career fully and am interested in joining the club sports to continue playing and improving my skills,” Merenda said.

Even though Merenda’s high school career is over, she plans to stay involved and continue doing what she loves.