Senior captain Freya Blatz is a remarkable leader on the field, embodying her team’s spirit and determination.
“It means a lot to me that my teammates and coaches recognized me to be a captain as someone capable of leading the team,” she said.
Despite the pressures that accompany her role, Blatz believes that “the relations I have with my teammates and the environment we have created takes the pressure away from being a senior captain.”
This supportive atmosphere allows them to create lasting memories and cultivate strong chemistry both on and off the field.
Blatz’s journey as a goalkeeper began unexpectedly at age 9.
“I volunteered to go in goal in the 2nd half and I fell in love with the position!” she said.
Although she “conceded 13 goals that single half,” that experience ignited her passion. She vividly remembers practicing at home, where her parents tossed dodgeballs to help her improve her blocking skills.
What Freya loves most about being a goalkeeper is the adrenaline rush it brings.
“I love the adrenaline, pressure, and perspective of being a goalie. I enjoy the adrenaline of a 1v1 save or blocking a shot people thought was going in,” she said.
The best feeling, she added, is celebrating together after a goal: “There is no better feeling than watching one of your teammates score and getting to sprint from your goal to your team celebrating.”
Blatz credits her family as her greatest influence.
“My family has been my biggest influence throughout my entire career,” she said.
Her mom was her first coach, teaching her the joy of teamwork, while her dad provided crucial skills training.
“I have memories of just going to a turf field and he would teach me how to throw the ball and punt it,” she said.
Additionally, her sister Eva pushes her to improve during practice: “Without her, I wouldn’t have a training buddy and she pushes me harder every single time I train with her.”
Blatz has witnessed significant growth within her team, particularly among the younger players this season.
“I enjoy watching our younger players develop and learn the game,” she said.
She takes satisfaction in their progress, noting improvements in passing, composure, and overall soccer IQ.
Looking ahead, Blatz hopes for a strong playoff run, believing the team can compete with anyone.
“I truly believe that we can beat any team we put our minds to,” she said.
She seeks redemption against Fox Chapel, reflecting on her freshman year’s penalty shootout loss: “I hope to continue performing well, especially if we face Fox Chapel again. I seek redemption from my freshman year.”
Blatz guides her team through the season with passion and commitment. She inspires her teammates and solidifies her role as a strong leader both on and off the field. With Blatz in goal, the girls soccer team is set to head to the playoffs next week.