Lady Sharks Inaugural Season Ends In Daytona Beach

The Miami Dade College women’s soccer team’s inaugural season ended on Oct. 25, as the Lady Sharks fell 3-0 to Eastern Florida State College at the Florida College System Athletic Association semifinals in Daytona Beach. 

Despite the loss, MDC had a lot to celebrate this season. They posted a 10-5 overall record, including a 4-1 mark at home, and finished the regular season ranked 18th in the National Junior College Athletic Association’s Division I women’s soccer poll.

“I think the season was amazing,” said Lady Sharks forward Tessa Abreu. “Not only in the amazing bond we made with each other despite coming from different cultures, but the fact that we were able to push each other in every practice and game to get better.”

Notable victories for the squad included a 3-2 win against the ninth-ranked Eastern Florida State College on Sept. 27 and a 2-0 win against Monroe Community College on Oct. 5. The Tribunes, who are headed to the  NJCAA National Championship Tournament in Wichita, Kansas, only loss this season came versus MDC. 

“This season has been a testament to resilience, with unexpected challenges met by remarkable performances,” said Lady Sharks defender Elizabeth Mata. “While there were highs and lows, the growth and determination shown throughout have set a solid foundation for the future. This is only the beginning for our team.”

Forward Julia Gurgel led the Lady Sharks with 12 goals and 24 points. The freshman was tabbed at the FCSAA Division I Player of the Year. Freshman forward Tessa Abreu finished second on the squad with eight goals and 20 points and she led the team with four assists.

Goalkeeper Scarlett Veloza Albarracin was tops on the team with 39 saves in 12 games.

Gurgel and defender Susan Santos earned First-Team All Conference honors and Abreu, Betzael Contreras and Camila Martins Viera received Second Team honors.

“We have always been a very united team on and off the field,” Gurgel said. “Our coaches were very important in this process as they always kept us united. I love our group and the history we are building. We will go very far.”

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