SydneySchulze

The final whistle still lingers. The memory of last season’s runner-up finish hasn’t faded for the soccer team- it’s fueling them. Now, with a new season ahead, their message is simple: show up.

Senior Kamryn Wray, a fourth-year varsity player, has returned as team captain with a clear goal: take back state. To get there, the team has ramped up its training, combining multiple strategies to elevate their performance. “We do a lot of NeuroTrainer – two to three times a week. We also are in the weight room two to three times a week to get off the ball and get that strength back,” Wray said. The added focus reflects the team’s determination to become more effective in their movement without possession of the ball, key to continuing their growth. 

Success for Marian soccer goes far beyond physical preparation. The team has emphasized building trust and strengthening relationships through bonding activities. “Success will come in our wins but also how we treat each other,” Wray said. With the pressure of last season still present, a strong sense of connection has become essential in maintaining morale and unity.

For junior Emmy Boyle, balancing the demands of academics and athletics has been a key part of the season. With added expectations, the team has leaned on extra resources for support. “We have a sports psychologist for our team and she helps us with our self talk and how to handle our stress,” Boyle said. While progress takes time, Boyle remains confident that “all the hard work will pay off.” The payoff is visible through her commitment to continue soccer at Minnesota State, reflecting her discipline and growth through the program.

Determination is shared across the roster, especially by sophomore Leena Brunt, who is eager for another shot at state. “We’re definitely out to get revenge because we all know that we’re capable of making it to finals and winning,” Brunt said. As Marian continues to build a strong reputation, competition has only intensified. “There are a lot of teams coming after us now because they know we’re getting better every day,” Brunt said.

Leading the team through this competitive atmosphere, Wray has embraced the challenge alongside co-caption senior Paige Miller, who is committed to playing Division 1 soccer at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Drawing from last season’s experience, the team is focused on growth and showing up in the moment. “We are using last year as a lesson to look at what we did right and how we got that far as well as what we need to improve to do better this year,” Wray said.

At Marian, expectations for student-athletes are high. For the varsity soccer team, however, pressure is seen as an opportunity rather than a setback. “We use the mindset of pressure as privilege because those nerves push us to go farther,” Wray said. This mindset has also led Wray to commit to playing Division 1 soccer at Drake University, further reinforcing the accomplishments that can come from adapting to the competitive culture.

No matter how the season ends, the team remains grounded in its purpose and pride. As Brunt put it, “success is going out with no regrets.”