Preseason for Wareham fall sports started on Aug. 22, and the girls’ soccer team hasn't stopped working since.

Coach Cindy Sylvia said the preseason has gone well so far and the players are working hard and getting into game shape. As summer winded down, the girls arrived at the soccer field at 8 a.m. each day.

Even though the team lost eight seniors, Sylvia said she has high hopes for this season.

“I expect to see our girls bring heart and hustle to every practice and every game.  I also expect our team to learn how to play together and win,” she said.

This is Sylvia’s 17th year coaching the soccer team.

Sylvia had praise for team captains. “All three of my captains lead on and off the field. They are good students, good athletes, good people, good leaders – this is a winning formula for a good soccer season,” she said.

Emma Wynne, a new captain, expressed how she felt to be selected as a team leader. “I’m really excited to be a leader. Being a captain as a senior is such a great way to say goodbye to the school and leave a mark,” she said.

Last year, the team had a tough season and didn’t win a game. But the girls are improving and setting goals.

According to team captain Sydney Johnson: “This year we are switching formation, which will help a lot. We are all practicing new drills that are helping with footwork and positioning. We are definitely in better shape than last year.”

Joining the team this year is freshman Brett McSherry.

“It’s cool to be part of a high school team for the first time. They’re all really welcoming,” McSherry said.

New this year, Wareham High School is allowing eighth graders to participate on sports teams. Lizzie Ruiz, a Wareham Middle School eighth-grade student, said that the hardest part about being on the high school team was not knowing the other players. She says she is adjusting well.

One player, unfortunately, will be on the sidelines when the season starts. Brianna Williams, a goalie, suffered a shoulder injury during her freshman year.

Complications from surgery have kept her off the field. On Sept. 11, she will receive results from her doctor that will determine if she can rejoin her teammates.

The team’s back-up goalie, Caleigh Monteiro, is ready to make some saves.

“It feels amazing to be back in net,” she said. “It’s where I belong. It’s my element. I love it.”

Kate Cunningham is a student at Old Rochester Regional High School. A former Wareham resident, Cunningham previously played for the Vikings' soccer team.