The girls’ soccer team [1-0] will take on Plano East at Texan Stadium today at 4 p.m. Coming off of a year where the team didn’t make the playoffs, the team is following head coach Jamie Pulpaneck to success. She believes the relationship with her players is a big part of what they do, so she made her connection to her players stronger throughout the offseason.

“The relationship is the foundation of who we are,” Pulpaneck said. “I think the girls respect what I’m trying to do and trust me, and I do the same with them.”

Senior Myah Buhler and sophomore Athalie Palomo are the two team captains who love playing the game and are excited for the new season. They worked hard during the offseason and hope their dedication translates to the field.

“[My teammates are] like family…each one of them, I consider them my sisters,” Palomo said. “I’m excited to play with the girls especially with the new ones coming in.”

Buhler is determined to play well and is ready to make relationships with the new girls on the team. She has worked on team chemistry and her fitness throughout the offseason. She has seen a lot of improvement in freshman America Elizalde who also received praise from Pulpaneck and Palomo.

“America has come in very raw and she’s very athletic,” Pulpaneck said. “She wants to learn and she’s gonna step up and be a starter on varsity.”

With the new season, the team has its sight set on the playoffs. They have gotten off to a strong start and will look to carry its success throughout the season.

“We have worked hard over the offseason to try and prepare for the season and hopefully the playoffs,” Buhler said.