A hardworking and talented member of East Varsity Girls soccer team is midfielder Julia Maher (‘26), who has been nominated for Eastside’s November Athlete Spotlight. With a career total of 15 goals and 29 assists for East, she has made her mark on the program. Maher also plays for the Players Development Academy (PDA) South, a club team that is a member of the country’s top female youth league, Elite Clubs National League (ECNL). Sheselected for the ECNL North Atlantic 1st Team All-Conference, consisting of the top players from each respective region. Additionally, Maher is part of the All-Olympic Conference First Team, chosen by the various coaches from the high school conference.
“Julia is an outstanding person on and off the field. [She] is able to dribble through a whole team, giving us multiple opportunities to score. She is a phenomenal player and is passionate about the game,” says Alyssa Perez (‘25), a captain of the East girls soccer team.
Whether it is playing tournaments across the country – from Florida to St. Louis to North Carolina – on her club team, or on the field at East, Maher’s dedication for the sport is clear.
“She always comes to practice ready to work and always has a positive attitude. She never complains and always gives one hundred percent,” says Madison Schultz (‘25), another captain of the girl’s soccer team.
Despite the rigorous schedule, Maher’s time in the sport has been invaluable. She enjoys the competitive aspect of soccer, especially when it comes to rivalries and big games. But more importantly, Maher emphasizes the friendships she has built by being on the team.
“What I like most is that I get to play soccer every day alongside girls that I may not have become friends with otherwise. It has [also] taught me skills like resilience, discipline, [and] leadership,” she said.
Maher’s persistence and effort has led to many victories – not only in terms of results but also in fostering a strong team spirit.
“I love how Julia is so consistent and reliable. You always know she will play 100% and truly make a difference every time she steps [on] the field. I am always confident in her when playing,” says Schultz.
Off the field, Maher is known for her uplifting personality and positive attitude, always motivating those around her.
“My favorite thing about Julia is her humor. She is always making people laugh, she is very kind, and is overall a great person,” says Perez.
As an upperclassman on the team, Maher has no doubt been an inspiration for younger teammates.
“Julia’s presence has helped raise the bar and expectations for the team. Her presence helps others strive to be the best and work hard,” says Schultz.
Maher encourages younger athletes to never give up on their goals, as her experience playing soccer for East has been nothing short of rewarding.
“The seasons are long and hard, with ups and downs, but what you get out of the experience is worth it. I would tell them to enjoy the moments as they come because it really does go by fast,” she said.