Girls soccer faced off against Crystal Lake South for their first game on March 12. Despite a close 0-0 game at half, Crystal Lake South had an opportunity in the second half that lead to a 0-1 loss for North.

The team is trying a new formation that will allow them to focus on their strengths in the offense, hopefully opening more scoring opportunities.

“We have a new formation this year, and it’s exciting to see how it will all work,” said senior Lauren Hansen.

Some of the girls’ goals for the first game included a focus on teamwork and control.

“Some of our goals for the first game was to work together and move the ball well, focusing on our communication as a team and building a strong foundation for the rest of the season,” said senior Emily Dunne.

The team was able to maintain possession in their offensive half during the second half of the game but ultimately fell short of the victory. Beginning the season with a close game hopefully will set up the girls with the foundation they want to accomplish their season goals.

“Some of our team goals for the season are to win Regionals and compete for the NLCC conference title,” Dunne said. “We want to compete with every team we play and work hard together to try to win as many games as possible and play quality soccer while having fun together.”

According to Dunne, the team’s strength lies in their work ethic and dynamic.

“I think our strengths as a team are our work ethic and ability to work together on the field,” Dunne said. “We have a lot of returning starters, and the younger girls have come into the team and been able to contribute to our existing team dynamic. We have been working really hard in preseason and are looking forward to getting into games and testing out our new offensive-minded formation.”

The girls are looking forward to a season that demonstrates their abilities and work, while also having fun.

“We are a very close knit group, and that is really helpful on the field,” Hansen said. I am really looking forward to having a great final season playing with my friends. I cannot wait to get out on the field and play. Soccer season is the best season, and I love all of it.”