Senior Night-The end of an era

By: Emma Jenan

Redwood Women’s soccer season is coming to an end, which means senior night is coming up. This year we have five incredible seniors who have dedicated their high school years to the sport they love. Here is what some of the players have to say. 

Joselyn Arellano ‘23, has been playing soccer for thirteen years, and is a starting varsity member of the team. Arellano starts off by saying, “Senior night is different than every other game, it is a night for us to stop and think about everything we have accomplished over the last four years.” When asked about what she has enjoyed the most in her time here, she replies, “I have enjoyed all the time I have spent with my teammates before and after games. I always get to hang out with the people I share a good connection with.” Arellano says that, “After high school I would like to stay in touch with the ball, but I am still deciding if I want to play in college.” 

Clarissa Martinez, ‘23, explains that this is her last season of playing soccer ever. Martinez says,”I feel very grateful that I have something in my life that has taught me so much discipline and created so much happiness for me. When asked about her teams bond, Martinez replies, “All of the teammates have a sister-like bond, which makes the season very memorable.” According to Martinez there are a lot of factors that separate soccer from any other sports. “Soccer is different, there are no breaks, no timeouts, no wait to switch from offense to defense, so every second counts.” 

Olivia Saenz, ‘23, begins by saying, “I feel sad because this is my last year, and I’ve been on varsity since freshman year, but I’m also very happy because I get to cherish every moment with my team until I graduate.” When asked to describe her team, Saenz replies, “I have enjoyed spending time with the girls, we all have so much love for each other, we always support and encourage each other before every game, and we know we are here for one another.” 

Dakota Espinoza, ‘23, has been playing soccer since she was four years old. She says, “I’ve been playing soccer for as long as I can remember. Senior night is different than any other because it sparks the realization that it is the last season at Redwood, which makes it sad, but special.” She continues by saying, “In my time playing at redwood, I have enjoyed the passion that we all share for soccer, and I feel it brings us all closer together.” Espinoza, plan after high school is “I’m unsure of my soccer plans after high school, but I am grateful for this season! It has been strong and everyone has been doing great!”

Natalie Mcdonnell, ‘23, has been playing soccer for twelve years. When asked about how she feels about senior night, she says that, “It was a very special night, all of our friends and family were there to support. She says that, “I am very grateful for the amazing friendships and relationships the soccer community has brought me.” All of our players seem to agree that the memories they have with the team they will carry with them forever. 

“Soccer will always be a part of me.” Clarissa Martinez

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