After finishing the 2014 season among the top 20 teams in the state, the girls soccer team strives for another successful season. So far, the BGS team has compiled an impressive record of 7-5-1. Beating top ranked teams such as Pingry and Old Bridge, the team hopes to make some noise in the state tournament.

Leading the team this year is its defense.

“We have the same exact starting four for our defense, which is really good for us,” head coach Lee Ann Best said.

The team’s eight returning starters from last season’s lineup, has led the team both on and off the pitch.

Kate Swetz, Emily Washbourn, Victoria Minutillo, Kristen Malebranche, Carly Swetz, Sam Boyer, Lauren Mazich, and Amelia Curtis all returned with varsity experience this season.

Aside from a 4-0 loss to Ridge, the Lady Raiders defense has allowed just a goal per contest, on average.

Senior captains Kate Swetz, Washbourn and Minutillo all have had important roles contributing to the success of the team.  

Washbourn and Minutillo combine to set up an impenetrable wall for the defense. Swetz is always a scoring threat at midfield and opposing teams often need two or three players to stop her.

“I had them fill out individual and team goals,” Best said. “Our main goal is to beat Central or Bridgewater.”

Despite their hard work, the team has yet to beat Central or Bridgewater, losing by one goal in both heartbreaking matches.  

Although the team is led by  its talented group of seniors, there are some starting players returning slated to return for the 2016 season.  Leading the charge is Carly Swetz and Kristen Malebranche. The two led the team to some important victories throughout the season and will likely emerge as two of the top players in the county next year.

It is often unheard of that a freshman would start on the varsity girls soccer team but freshman Olivia Bandola broke through that barrier. Against local rival Montgomery, Bandola recorded three key saves to keep the momentum and lead the team to a 6-0 victory.

“Playing on the varsity team as the starting goalie has been a great opportunity and a wonderful experience,” Bandola said. “I have learned a lot from the team and have had the chance to play with some amazing people and soccer players.”

These next few games are critical for BGS, determining if they make it into states and the playoffs. The girls play their last home game against Ridge on the Oct. 29. They expect a big crowd and a lot of support from their fans.