District News

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- After finishing third in the OK Gold Conference last season, the Union girls’ soccer team enters the new year aiming to build on that success.

The Redhawks graduated three all-conference players from their 2025 roster, but two all-conference honorees return to lead the team this season: senior Madi Ferguson and junior Vivian Guikema. Both are expected to play key roles.

“We all come from different schools, so we’re still meeting each other at the beginning of the season,” Guikema said. “We’re all new to playing together, but it definitely improves, and we become a unit.”

Ferguson said the level of competition in conference play will also test the team as the season progresses.

“Our conference in the past has been really hard, but our newer conference is more competitive for us, and our skill levels are better matched,” Ferguson said.

This year’s tryouts drew strong turnout, leaving coaches with difficult decisions as they filled both varsity and junior varsity rosters. Sophomore Zaida Viveros, new to the team this season, said she immediately noticed the positive energy, adding that she liked the vibe within the group.  Players say that mindset can make a difference throughout the season.

“I want to keep a positive attitude and lead by example. I need to do what I am asking others to do,” said senior Taylor Wetherbee.

Senior Nataly Berduo-Bravo said she also hopes to support younger players as they adjust to the pace and expectations of high school soccer, remembering the pressure that can come with being new to the team.

“I was once one of those younger players, so I can understand the pressure,” Berduo-Bravo said. “I want to, hopefully, inspire them.”

Freshman Victoria Kim said she is focused on proving she belongs at the varsity level.

“I want to keep up with everyone else and make sure I am worthy to be standing in this spot,” Kim said.

With experienced leaders guiding the group and younger players eager to contribute, the Redhawks build on a long-standing tradition of challenging the best teams in their conference. Their growing chemistry and determination position them not just to compete, but to win, as they aim for another top finish in the OK Gold this season.