From bright red cleats to a blue headband, from shoving opponents to making the perfect pass, you cannot miss number eight controlling the field. Dominating the pitch, Laila Foose, senior captain of WCHS Girls Varsity Soccer, has been a key component of the team since her freshman year.
Foose began playing soccer at the age of four and quickly developed a passion for the game. Over the years, her love for the sport has translated into strong skills and a determined mindset. Now as captain, she leads not only through her play but also through her energy and support, inspiring those around her. Her commitment and drive push the team forward, setting a standard her teammates strive to match.
“When I was a new player, Laila guided me,” junior captain Katelin Chew said. “She reminded me not to get in my head after I made a mistake because she knows that I always do. As captains, we work together to support our team through wins and losses and make sure we are always focused during practices and games.”
To reach her goals, Foose has leaned on the support of her family and mentors, who have guided and encouraged her throughout her soccer journey. Their advice, motivation and belief in her abilities have played an important role in her development as both an athlete and a leader.
“My family, friends and coaches have all consistently helped me throughout my soccer career,” Foose said. “My parents and friends have supported me by coming to my games and cheering me on, and my coaches have helped me raise my confidence and improve technically.”
WCHS Girls Varsity Soccer coach, Haroot Hakopian, has coached Foose since her freshman year. He has seen firsthand her discipline on the field and growth as a human being.
“Laila is a tremendous soccer player who is utterly dedicated to our team,” Hakopian said. “That has been a constant ever since her 9th-grade year. Her growth and maturity have deepened her understanding of her leadership role. In refining her leadership skills, she has learned that the same leadership style will not necessarily work with every person. She adjusts her style to fit the needs of other players. That is a skill with which most adults have difficulty. It is incredible to see it in Laila, and I am fortunate to have her on my team as a player and a leader.”
Foose is continuing her soccer career at Middlebury College in Vermont. Middlebury competes as part of the NCAA Division III and the New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC). NESCAC is a highly competitive league of liberal arts colleges.
“Throughout my junior year, I consistently sent Middlebury highlights from my club season, attended their ID camps and went on visits and had calls with the coaches,” Foose said. “They reached out and gave me the offer the first day they were allowed to on July 1st.”
Foose evidently has a bright future ahead in her soccer career, even with the nearing close of her high school experience. She is appreciative of her time on the WCHS team, as it has become a close-knit community and second family for her.
“My favorite part about being on the WCHS team is the culture,” Foose said. “Everyone gets along so well and we all can count on each other to lift one another up when things go wrong in games. I am going to miss this team so much.”
Foose displays admirable qualities on the team each and every day. She was selected as a captain her junior year due to her intelligence, compassion and dedication to the craft of soccer.
“Laila cares deeply about everyone with whom she interacts,” Hakopian said. “She is committed to reflection and improvement and constantly seeks to learn more about leadership and apply that knowledge for our benefit. Her dedication makes her a role model for younger players.”
Foose has faced many challenges throughout her soccer career. From moving club teams to fighting for playing time in games, her journey has not always been the easiest. It is her persistence that has shone through despite those struggles.
“I have faced many challenges,” Foose said. “I just focused on my goals. I knew I wanted to continue playing soccer in college, so I continued to work hard. My goal this season is to lead and take the team to states.”
