Duluth East Girls Soccer Hoping Retooled Roster Helps Make Next Step

Duluth East's season begins on Thursday as they host Woodbury.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth East girls soccer team has gradually improved over the past couple of seasons.

They took a step further in 2023 by posting a 12-4-2 record with an appearance in the 7AAA semifinals.

However, it’ll be interesting to see how the beginning of 2024 goes for the team as they deal with a whopping 15 seniors gone from last year’s squad.

But, after a strong junior varsity campaign, which resulted in only one loss to Wayzata, head coach Steve Polkowski isn’t sweating the high turnover amount.

“We had 15 seniors last year but we also had probably another 14-15 kids that played varsity minutes. So it’s not new to them. The amount of minutes that they’re going to play is going to be new. The starting lineup is going to be new. The formation is going to be new. But there’s kids that have been waiting for this for a long time. They’ve put in their time and I think they’re ready and it should be a good year,” said Polkowski.

As for the players, they say the work ethic and belief is there for the Greyhounds of 2024 to have another big year.

“I think our attitude is going to get us really far this season. I think everyone has a lot of confidence in themselves and in this team. I think we’re really uplifting and positive so I think that will get us pretty far,” said junior Julia Davis.

“I think it’s all about what you’re willing to put in and how hard you’re willing to work and what you’re willing to show up for and the changes you’re willing to make, how you’re willing to work with your teammates. I think it’s really something you have to kind of decide to work for. Then work towards it and do your best,” added senior Maggie Winesett.

Duluth East’s season begins on Thursday as they host Woodbury.