Monroe Township Youth Soccer: A Foundation for Success on the Pitch

For Mary Kate Ulmer and Ashley Engler, the bond they share on the soccer field goes far beyond their impressive goal-scoring abilities. As senior forwards for Williamstown High School's girls' team, they have developed a chemistry that has been honed through years of playing together, starting from their youth days in Monroe Township youth soccer.

Ulmer, who plays on the right side of the field, and Engler, who plays opposite her, have been teammates for four years, with their understanding of each other's game growing stronger with each passing season. 'She's definitely a hard-fighting player,' Ulmer said of Engler, praising her ability to distribute the ball and create scoring opportunities. 'The way we work, I could never do it with someone else.'

Lauren Wood, the team's physical midfielder, is another key component of their success. With an uncanny understanding of how to work together on the pitch, Ulmer and Engler have developed a trust that allows them to anticipate each other's moves and create scoring chances. 'She understands me, and I understand her,' Ulmer said.

Their compatibility stems from their experience playing together in Monroe Township youth soccer, where they first formed their partnership at just 8 and 9 years old. Now, as senior starters, they have developed a rapport that has allowed them to become one of the most feared attacking duos in the Tri-County Conference.

Coach Dan Torcasio praised the duo's ability to work together on the pitch, saying, 'They've been doing it for the last three years, to be honest. Mary Kate and Ashley have been fantastic, with 29 goals between them.'

The Williamstown High School girls' soccer team has had a remarkable season so far, with an 11-3 record and a ranking of No. in the state. Their most recent victory, a 3-2 win over Winslow Township, sent them into the Coaches Tournament quarterfinals, where they will face eight-time defending champion Lenape.

As they look to continue their impressive run, Ulmer and Engler's partnership will undoubtedly be a key factor in their success. With their ability to create scoring chances and work together seamlessly on the pitch, they pose a formidable threat for any opponent.

Monroe township youth soccer