The Columbus Middle School girls soccer team went undefeated in Copa Columbus winning a tough final against Marymount 2-1 on March 11.

TCS was led by defender Emiliana Isaza who scored in the 13th minute from inside the penalty area and midfielder Manuela Harry who scored on a breakaway in the 25th minute. In between, Marymount tied the score at 1-1 on a goal by Violeta Saabedra.

“Emiliana is just a 6th grader and she manages to stand out every time, coaches from other schools have reached out to me and asked about her,” Coach Elizabeth Jaramillo said. “She also plays outside of school for the team Atlético Nacional.” 

Tension started to build up and TCS did not let their guard down. Alina Restrepo, the goalkeeper for the Columbus team performed an amazing save when Violeta Saabedra (#7) from Marymount, attacked the ball directly in front of the goal.

“Alina also plays outside of school and has demonstrated to be one of the strongest players on the team,” Coach Jaramillo said. “The first half of the game has been a complete success, we got to see Manuela Harry (#25), a new player, score an amazing goal only 12 minutes after Emiliana.”

 To reach the final TCS overcame a tough Montessori team 2-1. Columbus coach Elizabeth Jaramillo was not only impressed with TCS’ ability to defend the field during the second half, but also with the progress Montessori had made over the years.

“A girl that played as a striker caught my eye,” Jaramillo said. “She was constantly challenging the defenders and had a good technique, I talked to her coach and he told me that her progress stood out within her category (2009).”

TCS had to change their usual offense style and focus on establishing a stronger defense to maintain the lead.

“We have trained to develop effective strategies that let the defenders make passes to the middle fielders and strikers near the touchline, this is what allows the team to play as a group,” Jaramillo said.

These strategies, along with leadership and communication, drove the TCS Middle School team to win the championship title on March 11th. Their team Capitan, 8th grader Sofía Álvarez, was seen leading the girls and encouraging them to work together, reminding them of their achievements and progress.

“Marymount has very strong players that have made significant progress throughout the tournament,” Álvarez said. “However, I am confident our team is capable of challenging them and giving  them a hard time scoring.”

Copa Columbus was a very significant experience for the Middle School Girls soccer team, students and staff were thrilled to see them win the championship title.

“I am incredibly proud of our team, our hard work definitely paid off and I couldn’t be happier to see my teammates achieve their goals and continue progressing,” Sofía Álvarez, Grade 8, said.