After a slow start to the season with a pair of losses in its first three matches, the Fenwick High School varsity girls soccer team has found its footing with four victories and two draws over the last six. Last week, the Friars put on an impressive offensive display with 15 goals in their two victories. On April 23, Fenwick (5-2-2) blanked visiting De La Salle 6-0, then the following day at IC College Prep, the Friars rolled to a 9-2 rout.
“As a team, we’ve definitely improved a lot,” said Fenwick sophomore midfielder Quinn Sansone, who had a natural hat trick against De La Salle and added five more goals at IC Prep. “We’ve grown closer together and been very gritty in games and not given up a lot. It’s good to keep tacking on good games, and I feel really proud of how we’ve played.”
Senior midfielder Mary Brunick, sophomore defender Fiona MacKinnon, and sophomore forward Keira Magee each had a goal and an assist against the Meteors, and goalkeepers Mimi Carvalho and Sofia Frech (three saves) combined for the clean sheet.
“We’re getting some momentum going. We played really well as a team,” said Carvalho, a junior who has committed to Bucknell University. She’s also one of the team’s captains, which is something she appreciates. “It’s awesome. Obviously, being with this team since I was a freshman, I’ve seen so many players come in. Being captain is an honor.”
At IC Prep, junior midfielder Coco Braithwaite scored twice, and Magee and senior midfielder Madison Zorovich had a goal and two assists apiece.
Sansone, who’s one of the top players in the Class of 2028, leads Fenwick in scoring this season with 23 points (17 goals, six assists). Despite her success, she maintains a humble demeanor.
“I enjoy scoring goals in high school. It’s fun to represent my team,” Sansone said. “I’ve been able to both score and distribute so I can help out my team in any way.”
Fenwick head coach Craig Blazer has been impressed with the growth and development of his team, especially Carvalho (1.62 goals-against average), Magee (four goals, five assists), and Sansone.
“We’re extremely proud to have Quinn. She’s a great example of just having a lot of joy for the game and making those around her better,” he said. “Can’t wait to see what she brings the rest of the season.
“Mimi’s been huge. I’m really happy for her. She’s an extremely committed player and a great leader on and off the field. For us to do well, Quinn and Mimi are going to have to score goals and stop goals. Keira’s having a great sophomore year, she’s worked extremely hard, and she and Quinn are working well together.”
Fenwick began a four-match homestand against DePaul Prep, April 28 (after deadline). The Friars will also welcome to the River Forest Priory Glenbrook North (April 30), Wheaton Academy (May 1), and Wheaton St. Francis (May 5). All matches start at 5 p.m.