Writer and Photographer / Keeley Miller
Three current members of the HSE Girls Soccer coaching staff have been proud Royals since before they were hired. Freshman Coach Meghan White and Varsity Assistant Coach Jacki Purcell both played for HSE Girls Soccer during high school. JV Coach Dan Ax had a daughter who played soccer at HSE, winning All State before graduating in 2004. “I have had seven coaches through my program that have all played for me,” said Head Coach Greg Davidson. “They understand our program. They loved our program, and now it is an opportunity to give back to the program. That they want to come back is very special to me.” The team brings back alumni by not only being one of the best teams athletically in the state, but by bonding with teammates on and off the field. The family-style dynamic of the team pushes athletes to success while providing valuable friendships and life experience.
“[Davidson] keeps in touch with the alumni, and they keep in touch with him,” said Ax. “If someone has a baby, everyone knows about it.”
Senior players Brooke Barnes and Megan Boyd reflect this, even wanting to have the chance to come back and coach for the Royals in the future.
“[Davidson] really emulates that family atmosphere here on top of his competitive nature and being a great soccer coach,” said Purcell. “He makes us a part of his family.”
