CHICOPEE — In order to reach the state Division 4 championship game, the Granby girls soccer team needed help from its underclassmen.
The Rams got it when freshman Gabby Walz scored the tying goal during a 2-1 victory over Uxbridge, Wednesday at Chicopee Comp.
Walz is just one of the many underclassmen who have contributed for the Rams (16-5-1), who will face Millis (17-3-4) Saturday at Worcester State for the state title.
Granby faced its share of challenges over the course of the season. Season-ending injuries to Summer Molin and Kaeleigh Croteau forced the team to adjust and come together.
“We faced a tremendous amount of injuries. It started before we even had tryouts. This team just seems to retool,” Granby coach Bob Weaver said. “Whatever injuries have been placed down, they just turn it around and work harder.”
Granby was forced to rely on some of their younger players to step up and transition into new roles. Molin, a senior, pointed out her team’s strong ability to fill in for their injured teammates.
“When I got hurt, Nora was up there by herself so we had to take the (freshman) Gabby Walz, she kind of had to fill in my spot and she’s been doing pretty incredible as a” freshman, Molin said. “She’s made some really clutch plays and filled that role really good.”
Weaver has been impressed with the production he’s received from his young players.
“We have some young kids from eighth to ninth grade that are really making a lot of good things happen,” he said. “They’re learning on the job.”
Young was proud of what the team has accomplished.
“We experienced a lot of adversity this season and I think getting out of this (round) was really hard for us, but I thought we did really well and winning this game was unbelievable,” Young said. “I can’t describe the feeling.”
Molin has embraced the opportunity to be there for her teammates despite not being on the field.
“Initially it was devastating but I know my team and I know we could play good so it kind of pumps me up being on the bench and I know I can try to help them,” said Molin. “Since I can’t help them on the field anymore I try to help them on the bench and give them energy.”