Women’s soccer advances to National level competition By Lenny Rockwell The Calvin women’s soccer team finished the season with an 18-1-1 record, with their first game as the only loss. This will be the first year that Calvin competes in the national tournament, along with forty other women’s teams across the country. The soccer team contended against a multitude of tough teams this year, including Wilmington and Kalamazoo. They came through the season with consistency. The team was consistent in wins on the road, and in their resolve to beat the tougher, favored teams. Their success can also be attributed to the fact that they had very few injuries throughout the season. Coach Deb Bakker described the team’s motivation by saying, “We don’t seek to be undefeated; we seek to play our best.” The season’s outcome has proved that their motivation and diligence has survived the test of difficulties, preparing them for the up-and-coming National tournament. Coach Bakker was also convinced that the team’s cooperation and chemistry helped them keep the fun of the sport alive. This is not to say that they did not work hard to earn their first place seat in the tournament bracket. Bakker acknowledged the players’ mental toughness and work ethic. This Friday the team will go headlong into the heart of what they strived to achieve. As coach Bakker said, “The crowd adds to the team’s confidence level. They add an electricity to the players and make it more fun.” She encouraged students to come out for the games. Calvin will face Denison University at 1:30 pm on Friday at Calvin field.