By Savannah Edgar

Highland Home School made history recently with the formation of its first-ever soccer team, marking a significant milestone for the school’s athletic program. The squad, composed of a diverse group of students from various grade levels, has already begun its inaugural season. 

Head soccer coach Robert White described the necessity of adding soccer to the school’s athletic program at Highland.

“I wanted to give the students a taste of what it’s like to be a part of a team and help them build character,” White said. “It’s also a way to discourage negative behaviors like bullying and unhealthy eating. Soccer is a great opportunity to develop teamwork, hard work and commitment. It also prepares students mentally for the future and is safer than traditional American sports like football.”

As the county’s first venture into soccer, the team experienced notable setbacks during the launch. With no pre-established foundation to model, coaches needed to craft the program from scratch. Girls soccer captain Elisabell Ortiz shared her enthusiasm about being part of the historic squad.

“I honestly didn’t believe there would be a team when I first heard about it, and I was completely shocked,” Ortiz said. “It’s truly refreshing to get to practice after a long day at school. It’s pretty great to get to hang out with my teammates, and the environment is really nice. I feel like everyone should try it because it’s an amazing opportunity. Even if it is different, it’s an exciting new way to build skills and stay in shape.”

The schedule pitts the team against some of the highest-ranked schools in the state. However, coaches said the players show incredible dedication to the game and have made tremendous improvements in each match. The squad has made notable progress in their defense and offense and is working to refine areas in need of improvement.

Boys soccer captain Isaiah Romero commented on the growth of the program.

“I feel like the soccer team is a great way to expand the horizons of our 2A school because many students around here don’t have the opportunities that Highland Home has provided,” Romero said. “While we aren’t perfect since this is our first year, we’re working hard to improve and get there. Being on the team has been a real honor, but nothing can beat being a part of the first one.”