As the season progresses, the Muhlenberg women’s soccer team shows remarkable growth despite setbacks since the loss of 12 senior players and dealing with numerous injuries. Team captains Jocelyn Mertz ‘25 and Bri Astbury ‘25 spoke about their perspectives on the team’s development, resilience and performance after Saturday’s match against ranked opponent Dickinson. Mertz highlighted the importance of trust and camaraderie within the squad when asked how the team is evolving. “The most significant growth our team is experiencing is our trust and support for one another. After losing so many senior players last year, this team had to rebuild and find that collaboration to be successful on and off the field,” said Mertz. Astbury echoed this sentiment, emphasizing how the adversity caused by injuries has created unexpected leadership opportunities for younger players. “Collectively and individually, we have all been presented with opportunities to grow more than usual, given our unfortunate number of injuries so far. Younger players have been asked to grow and lead in ways they wouldn’t usually have to this early in their career, and they’ve done well stepping up.”
Saturday’s game presented another test, as the team faced a ranked opponent in harsh conditions, the Dickinson College Red Devils. Both captains spoke about their team’s mindset and performance. Mertz was proud of the team’s fight despite the odds stacked against them. “I think we played well, especially given the weather conditions and the number of injuries our team has faced this season. When going out for the start of each game, we must have the mindset of battling and not focus on how the opponent is ranked. We proved to that team and ourselves how strong we can be when we stay confident, work together and stick to our style of play.”
Additionally, Astbury acknowledged that in the past, the team had been overwhelmed by focusing too much on their opponents’ rankings. This time, they stayed grounded and determined to play their own game. “We’ve psyched ourselves out in the past when it comes to worrying about the rank or skill level of the other team, and that hurts us a lot. The Rowan game was an example of that, and we use that feeling every day as motivation to focus on the way we play regardless of how our opponent is going to come out against us.”
Reflecting on specific aspects of the match, both captains expressed a sense of pride and frustration. Mertz was pleased with the team’s defensive efforts, particularly how they responded after conceding a goal in the first half. “I’m happy we contained their players and allowed only one goal. We were very competitive and responded well to the goal by not letting our guard down. I wish we could have capitalized on some of the shots taken on goal, but overall, the team kept pushing and never lost hope.” Astbury also praised the team for their fighting spirit and noted the missing offensive opportunities. “It was upsetting not being able to finish our offensive chances, given that we worked so hard to get there, but those opportunities will keep coming, and we’ll finish them. I was also pleased that everyone on the team recognized that we played well and were proud of ourselves for battling until the end.”
“I think we played well, especially given the weather conditions and the number of injuries our team has faced this season.” – Jocelyn Mertz
Ultimately, the lone goal in the first half made the difference, as Dickinson outshot Muhlenberg threefold. Despite Dickinson’s dominance in shots on goal, the outstanding efforts of goalkeeper Megan Stairs ‘27 kept it a 1-0 game. Stairs made 13 crucial saves that kept Muhlenberg competitive against a strong, ranked opponent. Astbury noted, “Having Megan (Stairs) back there made all the difference. She was fearless and gave us every opportunity to turn things around.” As the season progresses, the Mules will continue to lean on Stairs’s steady presence in goal as they build on their defensive strengths and capitalize on their offensive opportunities in future games.
Though the result wasn’t in Muhlenberg’s favor, the captains remain positive. The team is proving its ability to stay resilient and focused while newer players continue to rise to the occasion. With this solid trust, determination and growth foundation, the team looks forward to building on these lessons as the season continues. Catch the Mules in action next on Saturday, Oct. 5 on Centennial Conference Television (CCTV) as they travel to Gettysburg College to battle the Bullets at 1:00 pm
