“[Being a manager] was a chance to learn a new sport while being part of this athletic girlhood,” said Jael Nuamah, the Hackley Girls’ Varsity Soccer (HGVS) manager.

As HGVS searched for a new manager this season, Jael jumped at the opportunity. As a full-time dancer, she hadn’t had the chance to participate on a Hackley sports team. While she couldn’t physically play on the team, being the manager allowed her to be part of the team in a different capacity.

Jael contributes to the team’s success in several ways. Whether cheering them on or recording the game’s statistics, her contributions have been critical to the momentum and team’s energy. The coaches use Jael’s notes at halftime to improve the team’s performance in the second half.

Jael recognizes how players are feeling and constantly checks in with them; her empathy for the player’s mental health has been considerable amidst stressful times and games.

“One big thing I learned was to keep cheering even when a game may not go in our favor,” she said, “I find that trying to keep the players amped up and encouragement when they come out for subbing or half-time makes them feel recognized and encourages them to keep pushing.”

She pays close attention to the players’ feelings and body language throughout the games to ensure that the coaches know if something is wrong or if anyone is injured so that their feelings are validated and respected by the coaches.

Off the field, Jael often checks in to see how players are feeling to acknowledge the pressures that these athletes face. “I always like to check in with team members, especially underclassmen, and see how they are doing beyond just being an athlete,” she said.

When asked about the most memorable moment from the season, Jael described the Morgan’s Message dedication game.

“Tying the teal bows into the girls’ hair and hearing the players speak about the importance of mental health was such a core moment for me,” she said. “I appreciate managing a team that cares and is heavily aware.”

While Jael was thrilled to finally be a part of a special team, HGVS was even more excited to have her as their manager.

Freshman Katie Yalmokas describes Jael’s contribution to the team as pivotal to the successful season.

“She’s such a sweet person with such a warm heart and keeps the team together with her kindness. I feel so comfortable around her and am so thankful to have her as our manager,” she said.