By Ellie Parker, Features Editor
On Sunday, September 1st, the Yeshiva University women’s soccer team kicked off their season with a win against King’s College, the team’s first win in two years. Being that their last victory was at New Rochelle in 2017, this 2-0 win really sets this season apart. Liz Pavel, a sophomore midfielder and leading scorer, credits this newfound success to the team’s chemistry. “While last year we had it rough, this year makes way for new opportunity and our team is up for the challenge. We had a great jumpstart to the season coming out strong in our first two games. That comes from the positive attitude and comradery of our team; we’re passionate, play with lots of heart, and hold our heads high no matter the score.” Malky Perlberger, senior forward, believes that the change stems from the team’s hard work on and off the field. “No one really sees what goes on behind the scenes in practice. Each player on the YU women’s soccer team puts in work to represent not only YU athletics but Jewish women’s athletics [as a whole]. It’s an honor being a part of this tremendous group of women.”
Pavel and Perlberger each tallied a goal against King’s, ending a scoreless drought for YU dating back to 2017. For Perlberger, this goal was a career first. “Scoring a goal in collegiate soccer has been a dream of mine since I began playing for the YU soccer team,” Perlberger said. “It was such an amazing feeling to fulfill that dream not only in my season opener game but in my final season on the team.” Pavel, who had previously scored two goals against Fisher College, attributes her success to her team. “As for my three goals this season, I hope it’s just the beginning, but none of it would have been possible without the support, communication, and determination from the rest of my teammates.”
Coach Marc Zharnest, who has been with the Lady Macs for three years, agrees with players’ assertions that the team is playing to a higher standard. “This year’s team with a new coaching class and essentially our first recruiting year, combined with a great culture and good established roots, has really turned a corner. I think this year, there are girls who want to be here just for soccer, that this is their life[…]While last year’s team really gave it their all, I think this year we are more complete[…] You know, Rome wasn’t built in a day and it takes a long time to build an 11 v 11 program and I think we’re definitely trending up.”
Photo: Maccabees Logo