Heaped Praise Despite Loss
The Oualichi Women’s Soccer Team played its first inter-land soccer match in neighboring Anguilla representing St. Maarten, where they faced off against the Anguilla Under Twenty Women’s Team.
Although Oualichi WST has only been practicing for less than eight months, spectators and the hosts agreed that the ladies played an excellent match against a more stronger and experienced team. "We fought hard and although we lost 5-0 we all had an amazing time and were very proud to be representing the Friendly Island abroad. This is our first real match playing together as a team and we were very happy with the result," read a team statement.
Most valuable player of the match was Oualichi WST goalkeeper Claudia Simms supported by a strong defensive and offensive line. "Much credit goes to our Coach Chris Wever. In a short period of time he has given the team the confidence, training and support we needed to play in another country with a longstanding tradition of women’s soccer and hold our own. Much thanks also goes out to the Anguilla Soccer Association who were excellent hosts, providing us with transportation and lunch. We look forward to playing Anguilla and the surrounding islands towards the end of June when we will be representing one St. Maarten, both French and Dutch Sides," concluded a team statement.
The launching of the team in November of last year was a first for St. Maarten, with previously women having to join school teams or train on their own or with Associations not specifically geared towards Women’s Soccer. The name of the team is also unique as Oualichi, one of the original Arawak names for the St. Maarten, means Land of Strong Women. The team also has an official Facebook Page and newsletter in order to keep the community abreast of the country’s women’s soccer team. Those interested in being a part of Oualichi WST are urged to contact ou************@gm***.com or join a training session held every Monday and Wednesday at the Raoul Illidge Sport’s Complex from 5:30 to 7:00 PM.