West Milford girls soccer focused on growth, competitiveness

The West Milford High School girls soccer program presents a highly motivated and united coaching staff and roster ready to go for the difficult challenges this regular season.

The Highlanders are scheduled to host Lakeland on Thursday, Sept. 17.

“We have several important returning players who will be counted on to help lead this year’s team,’’ West Milford coach Nicole Gwinnett said. “Catherine Coyle returns as one of our key attacking players and will be expected to provide an offensive spark. Delaney Piecuch returns as a strong contributor in the midfield, while Madison Piecuch and Michelle Medina will be important pieces of our midfield and attacking play.

“Gigi Dent also returns and will be counted on for her work rate and ability to contribute on both sides of the ball. Lyla Primavera and Madison TenHoeve will make up an important role in the backline. In goal, Cameron Choma returns and gives us valuable experience and confidence between the posts.’’

Plenty of newcomers will be looked upon as contributors this year.

“We have a number of younger players who will have opportunities to step into important roles this season,’’ Gwinnett said. “We also have several younger players who have shown promise during preseason and will have the opportunity to earn playing time and make an impact.’’

Leadership could prove to be vital as the Highlanders chase their goals on the pitch.

“I want our experienced players to help the younger players understand what it means to be part of this program,’’ Gwinnett said. “We need them to hold each other accountable, stay positive when things don’t go our way and continue to work together through adversity.’’

West Milford tallied six overall wins and advanced to the first round of the NJSIAA North 1 Group 2 Sectional Tournament in 2025.

“Our biggest goal is to continue to improve every day and become a better team as the season progresses,’’ Gwinnett said. “We want to compete in every game, play with confidence and be a team that opponents know they are going to have to work hard to beat. We also want to continue building the culture of the program. We want the girls to trust one another, play for each other and understand that success comes from everyone doing their job.’’

The Highlanders compete in the Big North Conference Independence Division along with Wayne Hills, Wayne Valley, Indian Hills, Passaic Valley and Lakeland.

“I would not call this a rebuilding year, but we are definitely a team that has some areas we need to develop,’’ Gwinnett said. “We lost some important players from last year’s team, so there will be opportunities for new players to step up and take on bigger roles. I think we can be a competitive team. We are going to have to work hard, stay healthy and continue to improve throughout the season. If we can come together quickly and play as a team, I think we can surprise some people.”