The Whitehall girls soccer team will look to make a big push in the second half.

While the team’s record sits at 3-6 as of printing, head coach Chris Bleam is optimistic about his young team.

“Young players are learning and adapting as they have been forced into varsity action due to a number of injuries that have sidelined four starters for much or all of the season,” said head coach Chris Bleam.

Aubrey Vivian has been a big help to the team, and has played nearly every position and is playing extremely well on top of that, according to Bleam. Ava Wells is the team’s leading scorer, although goals are tough to come by for this young team, Bleam added.

Alyssa Marsteller, the team’s senior midfield/forward is the team’s most intelligent and technical player, and is also playing well, according to Bleam. The team is looking forward to the return of captain, Mackenzie Gonzalez this week from injury, which should help the girls try to make a playoff run.

“Despite the record, the varsity players continue to work hard and progress,” Bleam said.

Others playing well include, Ella Weber (midfield), Celeste Yunes-cosme (back) and recently, back Erika Eape has started to play with more confidence, Bleam added. Freshman Jade Alvarez has done well and developed quickly in Gonzalez’s absence.

The bad news is the team continues to be hurt by the long-term injuries to returning starters Bella Fonzone and Mia Due. But the girls are looking to improve in the second half of the season although the schedule gets more difficult, according to Bleam.

“Bottom line, our opponents know they have to play well to compete with this short-handed Whitehall group,” Bleam said. “I am impressed with their perseverance.”