Carlisle High School’s girls soccer team made it all the way to the state playoffs this season. The last time the team made it to the state tournament was in 2012 when the sport was still played in the spring. 

The Lady Herd played their first round on Tuesday, November 9 against Downingtown East (21-4-1). Facing a tough opponent, the team lost 0-3, which unfortunately meant that their season was over because of the single-elimination style of the tournament. With a final record of 17-5, this is the first time the program has reached 17 wins since the 2001 season. 

Athletic Director George Null said, “Expectations were pretty high based on returning players. Two years ago, when most of these kids were starters as sophomores, we had a successful season.” 

For this season, the team’s final game of regular season play stands out in particular. The team faced long-time school rival, Cumberland Valley. The Herd fell behind early to the eagles by one goal, but Carlisle answered back with a goal of their own by sophomore Addysen Fitzgerald. Before the end of the first half, both teams scored another goal to tie the game. Carlisle’s goal came from senior Sejla Podzic.

In the second half, junior Ryleigh Poole scored to give the Herd a lead. A little bit later, Podzic would score her second goal of the night to secure the victory.

Throughout this season, the girls were not only able to improve their game, but also improve their mindset. They set and achieved both individual and collective goals that allowed them to learn from the sport they love.

Sophomore center back Aliah Ring said, “This season has shown me what it’s like to be part of something bigger than myself and it has shown me how to come together with a group of people to achieve things that I couldn’t do on my own.” 

Another key contributor to the success of the team this year was the bond that they shared. Their love and passion for one another were just as strong as their passion for the game. 

Sophomore right wing Maia Iannuzzi said, “We are all super supportive of each other and do everything that is in our ability to strive to help each other do our best.” 

The hard work the team put in throughout the offseason and season itself displayed the true dedication and heart of the girls. They were truly motivated, and the character was shown both on and off the field. 

“This year, the big difference is just buy-in and commitment to the program, and just commitment to the ideals and commitment to each other,” Head Coach Greg Clippinger said. “This senior group and overall group of young ladies handled themselves well, were enjoyable to be around, and I think they enjoyed each other.” 

Clippinger has spent 24 years as a coach with Carlisle girls soccer. Last season, he hit a milestone of 350 wins, and with the 17 wins from this year, he now sits at 367. 

Although the seniors might not have ended their season the way that they had hoped, they will never forget this season for the efforts and friendships that they made. 

Senior left back Alex Thumma said, “I was able to leave the field with no regrets as I truly feel I gave it my all.” 

Want to share some love for the team? Want to win a free t-shirt? Comment below with your name and email address and you will be entered to win our Periscope t-shirt contest. Sorry–open only to current CHS students and staff.