ROCKINGHAM — The final spring sports senior night ceremony was held on Richmond’s soccer pitch Tuesday.
Ahead of the Lady Raiders’ final Sandhills Athletic Conference match of the season against Scotland High School, the program recognized its nine senior players.
This year’s seniors included Samantha Barnes, Sa’Quanna Bostic, Ashly Gonzalez, Nevaeh Harris, Mariana Mendez, Hanna Smith, Mascha Theijs, Ava Thompson and Yarely Vargas.
Starting at midfield and walking toward the home bleachers, each player was introduced by public address announcer Arthur Gilliam.
Escorted by family members, the seniors walked through a balloon arch. Meeting the seniors and their families on the other side were coaches Chris Larsen, Bennie Howard and Michelle Denson.
As a gesture of thanks for their contributions to the program, each player received a flag with Richmond’s crest and her number on it. Fellow teammates also presented the seniors with gift baskets.
“This year we had a really big group of seniors, which seems to happen every few years,” Larsen said. “I think that shows this group’s dedication to our program and the sport for the last four years.
“Hopefully each of them enjoyed their time as a Richmond soccer player and learned a thing or two about the game along the way,” he added. “And maybe a thing or two about how to apply what they learned to real life. I appreciate each of the girls and everything they’ve done for the program. We will miss them as they take on their new endeavors.”
The Richmond Observer will publish a complete article of Tuesday’s match soon.
