The Pack explodes with energy as senior Taylor Hobson cuts around a Mira Costa defender and drives the ball into the back of the net. She is followed by senior Sarah Gordon, who chips the ball over the outstretched hands of the opposing goalie. On February 17, girls varsity soccer, down by one point at halftime, was inspired by the crowd’s energetic support and coach Julie Scheppele’s encouraging halftime pep talk. The team’s unwavering determination and intensity fueled their comeback in the second half, and CHS supporters were ecstatic as they watched the school’s victory (2-1) over Mira Costa. Girls varsity soccer went on to defeat Poly Riverside (2-0) in an exciting away game on Feb. 22. The victory carried the team to the quarter-finals, which took place at CHS on Feb. 24. Unfortunately, the team lost a very close game (1-0) against Sunny Hills.
“We have come very far this season and I couldn’t be more proud,” said Scheppele. “We got off to a slow start and the second half of the season has been incredible. We had a ten game winning streak, which is the farthest girls soccer has ever gone.”
The Pack, filled with pride after the soccer team’s exciting win, went on to cheer for boys varsity basketball in a game against Palos Verdes. The team’s fundamental skills and extensive preparation have paid off in three playoff victories over Palos Verdes High School(53-38), Lakeside High School(70-56) and Torrance High School(67-46). The basketball team won an impressive victory in the semi-finals on Feb. 24, where CHS and the city ofCalabasasrented a charter bus to bring the faithful Pack all the way toTorranceto support the team. The CHS student body has come together behind the team in a series of black-out games, adding to the intense atmosphere of the playoff season. Captains Holden Israel, Josh Cohan, Spencer Levy and Zac Hepps have led the team through several blow-out victories, where their leadership skills have complemented the players’ outstanding teamwork.
“I’m very proud of how our team has made a weekly effort to continue to improve all year,” said coach Jon Palarz. “Every week it felt like we had reached the next accomplishment and took another step forward.”
Both teams have progressed throughout their seasons. The boys varsity basketball team will compete against South Torrance in the finals at the Anaheim Arena tonight, March 1, at 6:30 p.m. Be sure to come out and support the CHS Coyotes as they compete for the CIF championship title! •
