By Marty Camacho

Bouncing back from last season’s exit, the Women’s Soccer team wins the South Atlantic District and is moving on to the national tournament. 

The Pirates defeated Cape Fear Community College 2-0 to secure their ticket to the nationals, starting off determined with two early goals within the first seven minutes of the game. Midfielder Maya Figueroa’s free-kick goal in the second minute put the Pirates ahead, and forward Aiyannah Robinson’s goal from a corner kick sealed the game as Cape Fear’s efforts were not enough to come back from the Pirate’s early lead.

The Pirates, only in their second year, came close to qualifying last season. They stumbled against the same opponents they beat this time around, losing 1-0 from a late goal from Cape Fear. 

Since then, the Pirates have addressed their weaknesses—boasting a deeper roster capable of dealing with late-season injuries and availability issues. A plight that ultimately cost them their ticket to nationals last year.

They proved to be stronger and back for vengeance this time, as they came out with early statement goals against the team that once bested them. And as a second-year team, the Pirates are already back-to-back Region 8 champions, the newly crowned South Atlantic District Champions, and now have their eyes set on conquering the nationals held in Huntsville, Alabama from November 17 to 23.