There is something magical about Stockton’s soccer games. Losing our first game earlier this month to Rensselaer was a hard pill to swallow and left a bitter taste in the mouths of many of the players. This desire for redemption brought a certain flare and cadence onto the field. Victory was already ours before the game began. I could feel it.

I remember this poignant game like it was yesterday. Bright lights contrast the night air, warmth from neighboring bodies radiate in the biting autumn cold, and the animated cheers of Stockton Soccer fans swelled with hope as the countdown to the buzzer beckons us to victory. We were up 2-0 at the beginning of the second half and our rivals seemed to be unraveling. There was electricity in the air and our players were tactful and precise. I felt a sense of expectancy—an urgency watching the game, and I could tell I was not alone. All of a sudden, number 26 charges, striding across the field with the ball. We rise as one in anticipation. With one swift move, he kicks it, making a perfect arc over the goalie’s head and into the goal—Amazing!

When I share a part of myself, even if it’s small, it makes me feel like I’m part of something bigger. I love how people show their true selves at these games, both in frustration and acclamation. Although Stockton University is not known for its abundance of sports, the campus community is eager to support the few we do have! It’s comforting to see familiar and new faces with each game and build a foundation of camaraderie. We rise together or stumble together, but united we will always stand. Our soccer team holds great talent and I find myself in constant awe as the starters show off foot tricks I’ve never seen. We won 3-0 to Mary Washington and I would never had expected to see this much Stockton school spirit at our games, but I aim to go to as many as possible.