BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – The Vermont Green soccer team is on an exciting journey, reminiscent of the Catamounts’ impressive run last fall. Forward Maximilian Kissel believes this kind of experience is rare. “It’s once in a lifetime,” he shared. “Not many states get to have two national finals in one year.”
Midfielder Ryan Zellefrow noted the team’s resilience. “We’ve had a lot of comebacks, showing our grit and confidence,” he said. These qualities shine in games, especially with goalkeeper Niklas Herceg, who has made crucial saves, including a penalty stop in the NCAA semifinals.
Herceg underscored the value of experience. “Playing in front of big crowds is familiar for us. It’s great to have the support from our fans, and prior experiences help in tense situations like penalty shootouts,” he explained.
In a thrilling postseason, the Green have overturned deficits multiple times. They thrive under pressure. Kissel shared, “When we go down, our heads might drop at first, but we believe we can score. If we net one, we can get two or three.”
Zellefrow added, “Of course, it’s less stressful to lead. But there’s a fun thrill in coming from behind.”
While both the Green and UVM had tournament runs, their journeys differ. The Green has enjoyed the advantage of playing all their postseason games at home, a key factor in their success. “This is amazing,” Herceg noted. “UVM played just one tournament game here.”
The community’s support is palpable. Kissel remarked, “You can’t walk downtown without hearing ‘Go Green!’ People are genuinely excited for us.” The enthusiasm from younger fans, seeking autographs and photos, adds to the team’s motivation.
“It’s incredible to see how much this means to the people,” Herceg concluded.
This connection between the team and fans highlights the impact of sports in building community spirit and pride. According to a recent survey by the National Federation of State High School Associations, participation in team sports fosters not just athletic skills but also community engagement and emotional well-being among fans and players alike.
With the Green continuing their run, their story illustrates not just a quest for a title but a deeper sense of unity and passion in Vermont. As they aim for victory, the entire state stands behind them.
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