GR Girls Soccer Team: 'Great Players, Better People'

After capping off a banner 23-1 season with a Group II state championship, the Glen Rock High School girls soccer team received word that the party won't be over until July.

Appearing at the school board meeting Monday for the celebration, borough council members told the team will have the town renamed in their honor for a day. They'll also be leading the procession of floats during the July 4 parade. 

“It would be a great way for you guys to come out,” Councilman Michael O'Hagan said. 

Although the team's athletic accomplishments are impressive, coaches and community members said the collective are even more impressive as individuals.

”They’re even better young ladies than they are soccer players,” Athletic Director Frank Violante said.

According to Violante, a parent had expressed concerns her daughter was experiencing difficulties getting along with other girls in the school. It was the varsity girls soccer team that took her under their wing, he said to a packed room.

”They epitomize what it means to be scholar athletes.” 

Added Glen Rock High School Principal John Arlotta: “Despite your success and the many talents, I always saw a team that played together. I didn’t see any of the egos or some of the things that come with success.”

Two members of the lauded championship 1984 team were also in attendance on Monday. When news began to circulate that the team was on track to compete for a state title, alumni of the 1984 team were asked if they had any advice to offer.

“Our response was 'boy, do we,'” Mayor van Keuren's daughter, Kate, said. “We basically told you to believe, to believe in yourselves... and you did.”