Ranked No. 1 in the nation, HSE girls’ soccer enters IHSAA sectionals with one goal in mind, finish what other past teams couldn’t.
With arguably the most talented and experienced roster in program history, the Royals are chasing a state title.
Recent seasons have followed a frustrating pattern. HSE’s runs have often ended too soon, usually at the hands of rival Noblesville High School. What began as a tough matchup turned into a annual roadblock. This time around, the trajectory has changed. Noblesville, once the team to beat, has slipped to No. 16 in the Indiana Soccer Coaches Association rankings after falling to the Royals earlier this season.
Even so, HSE isn’t focused on the numbers. Coach Greg Davidson isn’t changing their approach; discipline, composure, and confidence in their preparation. The message all season has been clear, ignore the noise and play the game.
“Something we have focused on all season is our mental toughness and consistency,” said senior Kate Noel. “When we go into every game with the same energy and intensity, it helps us set the tone and stay at a high level throughout the game.”
For seniors who have experienced the defeat in previous years, the lessons have stuck. Their leadership has set the tone and curated a culture built on the communication and chemistry within the team, something Davidson has leaned on.
“It would mean a lot for us to bring home the state title,” said senior Rylie Bridges. “I think every girl on the team deserves it with the hard work we’ve put into the season. Especially being a senior, I think all those girls deserve to bring home a big win one last time together.”
This time around, HSE chooses not to carry the weight of past disappointment, but rather as fuel. With experience and a national No.1 ranking to back them up, the Royals enter sectionals with tunnel vision and a real shot at finally breaking through.
“It would be more than surreal and such an honor to represent such an amazing school, coach, and program that has worked decades to achieve a state title,” said senior Sloane May.
