By Ryan Massad, Contributing Writer
Team: Marlborough High School (MHS) soccer captain
Coach: Samantha Cramer
Background: A junior at Marlborough High School, Sarah Purcell was recently selected to the Central Massachusetts All-Star team. Over the years, she has received many awards, including: the Coaches Award, the Champion Skills Award, and Unsung Hero Award. She also plays for the Delta FC club team.
How long have you been playing soccer?
“I have been playing soccer since I was about 4 years old.”
What are some of your earliest soccer memories?
“My earliest soccer memories have to be when I got my first two goals in the same game. I was so excited, and it gave me confidence to further my career in soccer.”
You had a tremendous junior season; has this been the most memorable of your three seasons at Marlborough High?
“It has. This season was definitely a big individual year for myself. I had a great season, and got a lot of recognition from it, including being named a Central Mass all star.”
What was it like to be chosen to this year's all-star team?
“I'se never been fortunate enough to have such recognition, so I was extremely excited. I felt privileged to be named an All Star.”
Which coaches or upperclassmen helped you during your first two years with the program?
“When I was a sophomore, my coach Sam Cramer definitely pushed me to my highest capabilities, and made me a better player.”
You'se received a number of awards at MHS; which has meant the most?
“The award that has meant the most for me was receiving the Unsung Hero Award my sophomore year. It made me realize how much my skill actually helped out the team, even though I had sometimes doubted myself.”
Have you given any thought to college? Would you like to play soccer at the next level?
“I have started to look at colleges including Merrimack, Springfield and St. Anselm's, and I do plan on playing soccer wherever I go.”
What is your favorite class at MHS? Who is your favorite teacher?
“My favorite class in school is my Honors Pre-Calculus class. My teacher, Mrs. Miller, makes working hard a lot of fun, and I always walk out of class with a smile on my face.”