Pitt-Johnstown men’s and women’s soccer team seniors wanted to go out with a bang last Saturday in the season’s final game.
The teams had their senior days this week and closed their seasons.
The women’s soccer team has five seniors; the men’s team, only one.
The seniors had mixed feelings about their soccer careers coming to an end.
Senior Steven Marsh, defensive player, wanted to enjoy his last competitive game ever and just have fun.
“My experiences with UPJ have been great. I grew close with a lot of great teammates and had a good time in my four years,” said Marsh.
Seven juniors will be moving up next year.
With a final record of 1-16, Marsh’s goal for his last game was to have fun.
“I want to be remembered for my hard work that I put in on and off the field,” said Marsh.
On the other hand, the women’s soccer team has a few players who are graduating this year and leaving the team.
Senior goalie Timi Shiock and senior defensive midfield Elizabeth Steffen have a bittersweet feeling about their soccer careers coming to an end.
“It is bittersweet that I have worked my entire life to get to this point and, now, here I am,” said Shiock.
With a final record of 0-18 this season, Shiock’s goal for her final game was to have the team’s first season win, but all in all, Shiock wanted to go out with a bang and play the best game she has ever played in her life, she said.
“I would like to be remembered as someone who has positively impacted the lives of my peers, coaches and professors here,” said Shiock.
According to Steffen, she is excited to start a new.
“I am excited to start a new journey in my life (graduate school), but I am sad that I will be leaving soccer behind,” said Steffen.
“It is hard to grasp that this is it.”
According to Steffen, her experience on the UPJ soccer team has provided her with lifelong friendships and countless memories that will also help her succeed in the long run.
“My goal for my last game is to have fun and enjoy every last moment,” said Steffen.
According to Steffen, she would like to be remembered by being a positive leader and providing light to every situation that she has encountered.
The results in the senior day doubleheader against Millersville University were not much different from most outcomes both teams had in games this season.
The Lady Cats were defeated 3-0.
The women played tight defense by giving up only one goal until the 61st minute of the game.
The men lost in worse fashion, losing 8-0.
Millersville outshot Pitt-Johnstown 9-2, scoring five goals in the second half.
