Emily Mara ’25, center forward of Girls Soccer has been a star player throughout her time at Andover.
Girls Soccer Co-Captain Emily Mara ’25 attained four goals and three assists in the 7-2 win over Tabor Academy (Tabor), setting a program record for a single game performance. As a Division I soccer commit to Boston College, Mara’s hard work and elite skill level has contributed to outstanding performances throughout her career.
After the 2-1 win against Worcester Academy (Worcester) where Mara had scored in the first 30 seconds of the game extended her and the team certain composure for this game. Mara also revealed how she was able to exploit Tabor’s lagging pace to her advantage.
“It was similar to every other game, but we were on our home field, which made us more comfortable. We had just come off a big win against Worcester, so we felt really confident. I knew that their backs weren’t the fastest, so I was able to take them on and try to finish from my chances,” said Mara.
Ashley Dimnaku ’28 described Mara’s strong work ethic and excellent vision to discern offensive opportunities on the field.
Dimnaku said, “Mara is very hardworking, and she moves into open spaces where she can receive the ball and make positive plays. She is also very strong on the ball, and her finishing is precise.”
Similarly, Mara expressed how the center-backs played a crucial role in advancing the ball forward and that the team overall had an impressive feed to the offensive line.
“I’m at the very top of the field, so the ball always has to start from our center backs and then move up through the midfield. I’m usually the last person to get the ball. We were doing a great job of possessing the ball in that game and getting it forward,” said Mara.
Mara also noted that the team’s main focus was to control the game early, like they had done against Worcester and create many scoring opportunities.
“Everyone built off each other really well, and we aimed to get shots on net. We hadn’t had a game where we scored that much yet, so it was important to finish our chances,” said Mara
Regardless of the halftime lead, Mara noted her uncertainty on whether Tabor would catch on to the lead. Even though Tabor pressured the team to its keep lead as they went to the second half with its goal, Andover continued with its offensive domination.
“At halftime, we were up 4-0. We wanted to secure our lead going into the second half, but then they scored, which made it a bit tighter. We wanted to keep gaining a secure lead, so when it went to 4-1, we felt a bit more comfortable on the field… We never know if a team can come back, so we always want to stay on our toes,” said Mara.
Mura Daisley ’26 shared similar sentiments to Mara, emphasizing how the team kept constant momentum throughout the match, and found the additional inspiration in the face of adversity.
“I believe we are talented enough as a squad that if we started strong from the beginning and kept it up, we would have more success,” said Daisley.
Mara spoke on how her assists came naturally throughout the game. While scoring was on the top of her mind, she would simultaneously look to pass for better scoring opportunities.
Mara said, “I wouldn’t say I was searching for assists; it’s just part of the flow of the game. Most of our assists come from crosses from the outside. When I don’t have an angle to shoot, I’ll cross it across the front of the net and hope someone else finishes it. It’s all part of the game’s flow.”
Ultimately named as the Player of the Game, Daisley applauded Mara’s performance and highlighted her passion on the field, explaining how the game reflected Mara’s athleticism and talent.
Daisley said, “I am so incredibly proud of Emily, she works consistently hard and with so much passion and is a great leader and teammate. [I am] so happy for her accomplishment, but not surprised about it at all.”
