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ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — The Byron-Bergen girls soccer program has been one of the best in the area in recent memory and those high expectations are rolling right into these playoffs to be great.

The team has won every Section V Class C title since 2021, making them one of the top programs in the area.

“They’ve been in the state tournament since their eighth-grade year. I don’t know another program that has had that,” said Head Coach Wayne Hill.

The team has made three state final four appearances in four years, culminating in a state title last season.

“We felt what it felt like. So, I mean, we want to get back there this year if we can, but it’s going to take a lot of perseverance and determination,” said senior Mia Gray.

Byron-Bergen finished last year with a 14-2 record, scoring ten goals four times through 15 games and shutting out opponents eight times in that same stretch.

“One game at a time. You know, a lot of pressure has been put on us since last year and if you get too far ahead, you just lose your mind. So one game at a time is where it’s at,” said senior Libby Starowitz.

Because now they’re in the playoffs and one bad game or bad play can end your year.

“You got to just focus because it’s one and done. Like you can play a game and you’re just done. Like you could lose that game. And it’s you’re sitting on your couch for the rest of the season watching other people play. And that’s not the greatest feeling,” said senior Megan Jarkiewicz.

Hill says in every huddle the last thing they say has to do with getting on the field and having fun.

“It’s the last thing we say before we break the huddle. Go on the field, go have fun. It’s a game. Has to be fun,” Hill said.

It’s a group that has been together a while through the highs and the lows.

“We work as a team. We play together, we pass and we move. It’s one touch and play and that’s what helps us score goals,” said Starowitz.

While the team aims to repeat as Class C champs, the bonds they’ve formed mean more than any trophy.

“They’re literally like family. We see each other in school, we come out here, we play hard like there’s nothing else. We’re all friends or family. We work hard and there’s nothing else,” Gray said.

The Bees will begin their Section V Class C playoffs next week.

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For Related Stories: Section V Class C  girls soccer  Byron-Bergen