Varsity sports teams are the highest level students can play at their high school. Though upperclassmen are usually chosen for the team, tryouts are a way for all grades to showcase their skills to be chosen for teams. This year, the Varsity Girls’ Soccer team chose two freshmen to be on the team—Ava Mosley (’27) and Lila Salter (’27).
“Its a little scary playing with a bunch of upperclassmen, but I feel like it’s overall more fun,” Salter said.
Mosley and Salter play for Central Coast United Soccer Club and have known each other since they were six years old. They met while playing soccer for AYSO but became friends in seventh grade. They have both been playing soccer for eight years.
“My parents inspired me to start AYSO. From there, it was kind of more me wanting to continue it and pursue club [soccer]… I liked my coaches and club and then it just kept going from there,” Salter said.
Through their love of soccer, they were able to play for the varsity team, but with a few obstacles. During a home game on December 9 against Rocklin High School, Mosley was hit by an opposing player and fell to the ground. She suffered from whiplash and was diagnosed with a concussion, meaning Mosley was not able to play for three weeks.
“I was really sad. I was disappointed that I couldn’t play because it’s my first high school season and I made varsity,” Mosley said.
Despite the injuries and recovery time, Mosley returned to the game and enjoyed her time on the team.
“It’s good, it’s stressful sometimes though, and it’s fun,” Mosley said. “I feel very accomplished.”
Mosley and Salter have accomplished a feat that not many get to do. It’s something that even upperclassmen can look up to.
Symphony Lozano (‘25) played with both Mosley and Salter on the varsity team and is a part of the AGHS Varsity Girls’ soccer team since her sophomore year.
“They’re the sweetest people ever and are very encouraging on and off the field,” Lozano said. “They both get good playing time because of their exceptional skill and talent. They’re some of the best defenders I’ve seen at their age.”
Mosley and Salter’s dedication and passion for soccer paid off, and led to both being on the Varsity Girls’ soccer team. AGHS can’t wait to see what these dedicated players accomplish next year on the field.
