Co-Captains of the Varsity Soccer Team bring unity and motivation to the soccer field

Caption: The Varsity Girls team captains, Valentina and Carol, talk to the girls during soccer practice in an example of leadership and teamwork. [by Rafaela Miglio]

by Rafaela Miglio

The PACA Varsity Girls Soccer Team has started another season and the varsity girls’ soccer captain, Valentina Dallalana, is sharing her leadership role together with her co-captain Carolina Candido, with the goal of focusing on unity, motivation, and service. Together, they show how leadership goes beyond the wins and losses to build unity and bonding both on and off the field. In starting a new season for the girls’ Varsity soccer team, the need for strong leadership is something that they work on. Their leadership is shaping not only the way the team plays on the field, but also how they grow together off the field. For Valentina Porto, being captain is about more than just performance in matches. “In my opinion, being a captain is more than focusing on wins and losses, but about becoming someone in which my teammates can rely on, serving them in any possible way,” said Porto. “For me, teammates mean family, and I feel honored to represent the captain in this amazing team.” Motivation is a big part of her leadership. She believes her role is to inspire and support her teammates through challenges and successes. “Motivation is key when dealing with competitions and leagues,” said Dallalana. “I like to influence and motivate my teammates by helping and advising them towards improvement. And I am always open to questions or doubts they have about anything.” Some of her best memories come from moments of team-building that happen while practicing after school every day. “Many of my favorite memories came from sports, especially during practices when me and my teammates are able to enjoy our time and play the sport we love together,” said Dallalana. Her co-captain, Carolina Candido, plays an excellent role in providing leadership for her team as well. She brings a heart of service and teamwork to her role. “As a co-captain, I am willing to serve and help my captain and team on whatever they need,” said Candido. “Being a co-captain means serving and loving my teammates and coaches. It also includes viewing this sport through their perspective and thinking on what is best for our team.” With Valentina and Carol’s leadership, the Varsity Girls Soccer Team is not only competing with determination, but also growing in unity, character, and love for the game.