WESTHAMPTON — Before the Hampshire Regional girls soccer team’s game against Wahconah on Thursday, Vissi Rizos danced and joked with her teammates.
Introductions and the national anthem followed.
From the beginning of Hampshire’s 2-1 win over Wahconah to the final whistle, Rizos’ transformation into a feisty, vocal leader for the Raiders was apparent.
“As soon as I hear the national anthem and get on the field I know it’s game time,” Rizos said. “I have to flip that switch and focus.”
Rizos recently verbally committed to UConn to play soccer.
“I’ve been watching their soccer program for a few years,” Rizos said. “They’re really good. I went to a couple clinics and met the team and coaches. It just fit. I love their coaching style.”
Rizos’ leadership qualities branch out beyond the soccer field.
“She can blend in with any group and rise when they need a leader,” Hampshire coach Kara Will said. “Her focus and determination has grown so much. It’s incredible that UConn has recognized her. They are going to be pleased with her.”
Playing in the middle against Wahconah, Rizos was a little more verbal than usual.
“I’ve always been loud on the field,” Rizos said. “Tonight I was barking a little more because I was in the middle. I demanded the ball a little more than usual.”
The win over the Warriors (2-3) came the night after a tough 1-0 loss to Southwick for Hampshire (2-2-1).
“I am excited we had more of an offensive presence tonight,” Will said. “We found the back of the net. I hope it continues.”
Sam Tersavich initiated some early offense after winning a ball in the corner of Wahconah’s end. Tersavich sent a cross to the feet of Lindsay Abel, who scored to make it 1-0 at 35:14.
On a similar play late in the half, Tersavich sent a cross in front of Wahconah’s net to the feet of Megan Hufnagel, who made it 2-1.
“You have to work hard and get there first,” Tersavich said of her wins on the ball. “I am happy that my teammates are getting goals.”
Katelyn Pickunka’s presence on the back end of Hampshire’s defense swallowed up several opportunities for the Warriors. If a ball came near Pickunka, a towering clear followed negating the threat.
Wahconah scored on an accurate free kick by Emmy Cote with 13 minutes, 20 seconds left in the half that tied the game.
Wahconah had 14 shots on net but most of them sailed over the goal or wide of the net.
Melissa Gagnon made seven saves for the Raiders.
