By Ben Graham, Sports Editor
The girls soccer program at River Hill has grown into a powerhouse, winning three state championships in three consecutive years. These titles cannot be mentioned without commending star senior midfielder Jesse Hopkins, who tallied twenty-one goals and nine assists last season alone.
However, the Hawks have been dealt a huge blow in their quest for another state championship, as the University of Maryland, Baltimore County commit tore her ACL last spring in a game for her club team.
This hasn’t stopped Hopkins from being involved with the team, as coach Brain Song named her and Becca Higgins, who also damaged her ACL, positions as captains.
Hopkins has maintained a positive attitude despite the harsh circumstances. “It’s really unfortunate not being able to compete my senior year,” states Hopkins, “but I am grateful for what I have been able to accomplish here and the friends I have made along the way.”
Freshman left back Ashlee Hamer describes Hopkins as having a “great impact on all of us (the team). Even though she is injured she still shows up to every practice and game. That kind of dedication is something everyone looks up to.”
On a team that features thirteen underclassmen and only five seniors, Hopkins acts as a role model and leader to the group of girls. Sophomore midfielder Claire Kremer states, “She (Hopkins) is like another coach. During and after games she is always encouraging the players and helping them to improve.”
When asked about her experience playing for River Hill over the past few years, Hopkins says, “it is truly a blessing to say I have won three state titles. These have been some of the best years of my life.”
Hopkins also played basketball and lacrosse during high school. She has played on the varsity teams for soccer and basketball since her freshman year..
Last December, following her inclusion on the All-State team, Hopkins committed to play soccer at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). UMBC currently plays in the Division I tier of collegiate sports.
Song, her high school coach, describes Hopkins as an “extremely hard worker with a great attitude who will surely do great things there (UMBC).”
Hopkins believes she is ready for the challenge of college soccer. “I can’t wait to play,” states Hopkins, “UMBC has a great program that I am excited to be a part of.”
When asked how she chose to play at UMBC, Hopkins asserted, “I love the atmosphere there. I also wanted to go to a school that was close to home.”
Hopefully the Hawks can win another title this year to cap off an “extraordinary four years” for Hopkins!