One Last Time: The Final Game

Captain Emily Yacoub #19The Scarsdale Girls Varsity A Soccer team took to the field on November 23rd looking for a final win of the season. Rye played Scarsdale at Scarsdale High School under the lights. Fans showed up ready to cheer in the frigid weather. It was pitch black outside, but both teams shined on the field with a yearning to cap their season with a victory.Alessia Schettino #20

The Raiders once again worked in unity. The defensive line worked extremely hard to stop long balls and cut off players from entering the goalkeepers box. The offense ran to every ball with determination. The end of the first half resulted in 1-0, Scarsdale. However, with some questionable calls made by the on-field referee, Rye was able to come back in the second half and tie up the game, 1-1. Coach Kiera Fox-Turney commented “We were unhappy with a few calls. It is especially disappointing when you review footage and know that you could have had an opportunity if the whistle went our way. We can’t rely on the calls to get results, though.” The game went into overtime, and the energy stayed high. In the last six minutes of overtime, Riena Parente Ribeiro- an extremely talented Scarsdale senior midfielder- was injured in the opposing team’s goalkeeper’s box. The Raiders fought hard in the last half of overtime, but ultimately their final game resulted in a 1-2 loss to Rye. Many parents were frustrated with calls that had been made against Scarsdale. Coach Kiera Fox-Turney mentioned that the game was “truly a battle and we are immensely proud of our performance.”

Eve Braverman #21

Although the season ended in disappointment, overall it was a season to be proud of. Senior goalkeeper Dylan Gross commented that “This season [was] unprecedented and extraordinary. We never expected to be playing in the middle of a pandemic, never expected to finish the season, and never expected to make it to the section finals. We were able to defy all odds and finish our season despite the pandemic and with an incredible record. I’m really proud of the team and how we were able to stay safe and accomplish so much during our season.” To seniors the potential victory was important, but what mattered most was getting to play their senior season. Ryan Silberfein, a senior midfielder, said that “The 2020 soccer season was the light at the end of a dark tunnel, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the friendships I’ve formed and the memories I’ve made with these people. Having...a team I know I can rely on during such hard times is so comforting and being able to go to soccer each day and ignore everything else going on was such a blessing.” The seniors were strong players for the rest of the team to look up to. A key defensive player, senior Abigail Talish recommends that the younger players on the team “Truly appreciate every moment [they] have on the field and every second [they] get to spend with [their] teammates. The intensity [that is brought] to every practice and game determines how successful [the team will] be. Cherish every single practice and game.”

Audrey Gendel #9

Although the season is over, the memories will last forever. Kate Leffler, a senior midfielder, reminisces that after the final game, “We were all devastated by the loss, and mostly about the season coming to an end. We stayed on the field for about 45 minutes, after the game, just standing in a huddle remembering how incredible this season was. Through all the frustration and tears, we were still able to laugh and smile together. Although there was some sadness, there was also a great final feeling of accomplishment and friendship.” Silberfein comments “My favorite memory was definitely the rush after beating big rival Mamaroneck at home. But aside from practice and games, anytime we hung out as a team I always had a good time. We really bonded this year and got super close, which translated into our play on the field.”

Lola Tirabassi #13

The seniors had to juggle many situations this year: applying for college, doing all of their school work, playing their final high school soccer season, and all during a global pandemic. Dylan Gross offered insight: “This season really put everything into perspective. Knowing that any given game or practice could be our last. I always tried to give my all so I could remember those final moments in a positive light and have no regrets. I could tell that my teammates felt the same way - always putting in the work to be the best and that was so special to watch. I’m so grateful to have spent my senior season on a team with players that all care so much for each other and I will remember it forever.” Initially it was difficult for the seniors to cope with the idea of not being able to play, but once they got the “okay” to get on the field, they bonded and worked together to create an intense season. Talish said “I came into the season super upset that my senior season [would be ruined by] Covid ... but it ended up being the best season ever and we got so much closer than I expected. [We] were able to have so much fun on and off the field.” The team faced challenges, but it was all worth it. Leffler commented that “Overall this season, despite our many obstacles, was truly amazing. Our team became a family. We were, and continue to be, even after the season, so supportive of each other. There are friendships and memories that are going to last forever.”

Emily Shawn #2

The team stuck together through the lowest of lows and celebrated the highest of highs. Coach Kiera Fox-Turney said that “Coaching this season was a gift. We didn’t know what the season would bring or how far we would get. With everything going on in the world, this was so special. I feel very lucky to have been a part of this team. These girls rose to all the occasions. They play with class and style and heart. We are sad to see our 13 seniors go, but we hope the returners can honor them next season by carrying on the culture that we created. Last words to our seniors: Remember that this is a family. You can always come back and know that we will be here for you! Go forth and continue to make us proud!” Coach Mindy Genovese had some parting words for her soccer seniors- “To all 13 seniors- we are so proud of all your valiant efforts during this must unconventional season! We had a great run and made so many wonderful memories.”