Bullet Shot: Julia Soares

Julia Soares '20, Women's Field Hockey star (Photo courtesy of Gettysburg College Athletics)

Julia Soares ’20, Women’s Field Hockey (Photo courtesy of Gettysburg College Athletics)

By Hank Hahne, Staff Writer

Junior Julia Soares had a breakout year for the field hockey team this season. After making All-Conference second team last season, Soares more than doubled her scoring this fall, putting her among the top scorers in the Centennial Conference and making a name for herself as an offensive talent. A defining part of Soares’ season was playing in a new position.

“A major reason I switched from being a midfielder last year to now playing that high center forward position was to limit the amount of running I was doing in games. This was something my coaches decided was best to ensure I was healthy enough to make it through to the end of the season,” said Soares.  “I would say the key to making this transition easy for me and to my success was the confidence I have built through the extensive experience I’ve gained playing in collegiate level games.”

The junior led the team with 9 goals. In games where she scored, the Bullets were 5-1. When she didn’t, the team only won once. Like all good goal-scorers, Soares was confident to take any chance that came her way. She tallied 76 shots, with a whopping 63% of those being on target.

The field hockey team endured a difficult end to the season. Talks of a top playoff seed deteriorated into seven games without a win. However, Soares is optimistic.

“We are only graduating one senior, meaning our starting line-up is essentially the same, giving us an advantage having played together for a year already,” Soares said.

Author: Gettysburgian Staff

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