Posted by By Josh Quinn, Staff Writer
On August 21, the New Paltz High School girls’ varsity soccer team began training, and leading the way were two of their four team captains: Addison MacDonald and Riley Burdick. This is not Addison MacDonald or Riley Burdick’s first year in the sport.
“I started playing bambini soccer when I was just three,” Riley explained with a smile.
Riley never stopped playing, continuing to play recreational soccer in third grade, travel soccer in sixth grade, junior varsity in eighth grade, and finally varsity in ninth grade.
“I can’t remember when I specifically started,” Addison said.
Similar to Riley Burdick, Addison MacDonald first began playing the sport when she was very young. Both players entered varsity in ninth grade, something that is highly uncommon in any sport. Because of their dedication and the time they’ve spent playing, they became some of the best leaders in their grade.
“I look up to Melanie Kniffen,” Addison said. “She’s very level-headed in the game and makes all the right decisions”. Riley agreed.
One of the most important parts of being a captain is uplifting teammates, something that both Riley and Addison excelled at. Both players found their teammates to be extremely reliable, both on and off the field. Because they are both seniors, many of their teammates, like Melanie, had been with them since their first years in the sport.
“We need to score goals and be confident as a team; though I think we’re in a good place, we’re connected and have good chemistry.” Riley said pensively, “But mostly, it comes down to confidence. Knowing that we can do this.”
At the head of the effort to build this chemistry was the team’s coach, Keith Walker. By helping build these core skills, he allowed them to innovate on the field. His main focus was finishing drills, playing faster, more accurate passes, and maintaining composure in the box.
“Riley is so positive all the time,” Addison said thoughtfully. “She is constantly leading by example, working hard on and off the field, and I think that inspires everyone on the team.”
This bond was easy to see in games, with Riley playing wing and midfield. However, because of her experience in the sport, she was able to play almost any position. a skill that was indispensable when injuries inevitably occur on the field.
“Addison is a phenomenal player, and unfortunately she can’t play this year, but even being off the field, I think everyone looks up to her. She’s just so strong, and I know she’s going to get past it,” Riley explained with admiration.
During the spring of 2023, Addison tore her ACL, and because of this serious injury, she was unable to play in this year’s season. This, of course, didn’t stop her from helping the team. Addison was known for helping train players during practices and assisting their coach during games. Undeniably, the most integral part of a team is their chemistry and their confidence in one another. With Riley and Addison as team captains, the New Paltz High School Girls Varsity Soccer team had an incredible season.
The Maroon 