This year, we have really great leadership in our four seniors. I am so happy to be playing under such a solid group of leaders and that I can call all four of them my close friends. The last two seniors to introduce this year are Mara Hughes and Erin Miller, both of whom I have grown really close with and enjoy being a part of the team with them.

Mara Hughes, aka freak reach, Marla, or Pegs, is truly a born leader. Although she was not here my freshman year, I am very glad she decided to come back last year and be a part of the team again. It just wouldn’t be the same without her. Mara has been such a blessing to me, being a defender playing beside her every game. I have grown so comfortable playing with her by my side, and I truly love the relationship we have on and off the field. I love seeing the passion Mara has not only for soccer, but also for reaching out to people, whether through different mission organizations, helping Coach Furey with his 4v4 soccer teams in the spring, or working at a camp for kids with disabilities over the summer. She truly loves helping people and it shows. I love coming into preseason and getting the chance to just watch how she interacts with the entire incoming freshman class. They come into preseason mostly scared, nervous, and usually homesick, but it seems as soon as they meet Mara they begin to settle down and open up. She is awesome at really making sure everyone gets involved and no one gets over-looked. Her compassion, kindness, and passion are what really stick out to me about Mara. I love her to death.

Last but certainly not least of the seniors is Erin Miller, aka Ewin Elizabeth, E, or half of the Miller cousin duo. The thing about Erin is she truly loves everyone and will without hesitation take time out of her schedule if you ever need anyone to help you, talk with you, or just someone to listen to you. I really admire what a firm foundation Erin seems to have. She seems to know what she wants, what she is doing, and how she is going to accomplish her goals. On the field, Erin is solid in the middle, demanding and commanding that things go the right way. I love watching her with the ball because no matter who comes up to challenge her and try to push her off the ball, she always seems to be strong and hold her on. Off the pitch, though, Erin is such a kind-hearted, sweet, and truly awesome person. No matter what the problem, Erin seems to always be able to come up with a solution and even helps you sort it all out. Since my freshman year, I have always seen Erin as such a strong leader, even though she wasn’t a senior then. She takes charge when it is necessary and I know everyone on the team, including myself, really look up to and admire her leadership abilities. I surely will miss her next year.

Although playing with Mara and Erin has been amazing, this year does seem to have a hidden gloom that creeps ever closer as we realize this is the last year they, along with fellow seniors Nikki Bruscino and Angie Misamore, will be with us. Even after they leave, I am certain they will leave an impact on not only myself, but also everyone who had the privilege to call themselves teammates and friends. :-)