Jeff Moeller, freelance correspondent

Wherever she has lived, Richmond Hill's Ella Peterson has had soccer join her along the way. 

“Being a military kid for several years, soccer was the only constant in my life,” said Peterson. “As I moved every three to four years and brought comfort knowing that wherever I moved to, I could still have soccer. “

Soccer was a natural beginning for the Wildcats senior, explained Peterson.

“I started at the age of three when my dad was stationed in an Army base in North Carolina,” said Peterson. “Soccer is one of the earliest sports any kid plays, which is why every parent starts with soccer.” 

Now a senior, Peterson is about to close a major chapter in her life. She scored her team-leading 20th goal of the season Tuesday in the Wildcats’ 2-1 victory over Camden County, keeping their record unblemished at 12-0 overall and 7-0 in region play. The Wildcats are also in the hunt for their fifth consecutive region title.

Taking the lead role as team captain since last year, Peterson hasn’t always relished her position.

“When I was first named captain in my Junior year, I was definitely not comfortable in that position,” said Peterson. “I don't always consider myself a leader, but in time, I realized the girls listened to me. 

“In time, I realized my passion for leading, and I found I do best leading by example and holding players accountable by pushing each other. I love my team and am grateful to be part of such a good program.”

Head coach Shawn Allen has cherished his captain’s constant passion for the sport.

“She is the true offensive leader of the team,” said Allen. “She is extremely positive, hard-working, and always gives 100 percent. She loves playing and hates coming off the field.”

Soccer also has been a family mainstay for Peterson. Her father, Stephen, is Richmond Hill’s head boys’ coach, and her sister, Eliza, is a sophomore on the team. Peterson’s parents have been a pipeline of support, but she appreciates how they can keep a fine line. 

“My parents stopped coaching me in fifth grade and became soccer parents,” said Peterson. “Unlike some parents, they know the sport, but they don't always offer unsolicited advice.”

“Many times when I go to them for advice, they will ask if they need to answer with their parents' hat or their coach's hat. They have truly been my biggest supporters. If you ever watch how my parents coach during games, they are cheerleaders by nature. Soccer has always been a family affair. My mom (Julia) gets up early to catch the English games on Saturday morning. I have seen both our men's and women's national teams compete as well as many other national teams.”

Along with many moments this year, Peterson also embraces this year for the chance to play with her sister. It has brought a surreal feeling. 

“This year is special because I get to play with my younger sister, Eliza,” said Peterson. “ “At club, we practice together but never actually compete together. It really brings it full circle.”

Being on the field with her sister has provided her with a different perspective. Yet, the older sister has relished watching her sister’s development and the differences between them.

“Playing with a sibling can be a challenge, but also a lot of fun,” said Peterson. “Eliza is the exact opposite of me in just about every way. First off, she tends to play a more defensive position than I do, and that is a very different skill set. You always know when we are on the field together because you will hear us. Eliza is a much more technical player, meaning her first touch is usually great, and she is amazing at her corner kicks. 

“She is developing into her own player, which is fun to watch. One of my favorite memories of the season so far was watching her score her first goal for the varsity team. We have a bond like no other, and I'm excited to spend my last high school season with her. “

Aside from her sister, Peterson has kept a long, tight bond with senior goalie Kam Martinez. 

“Some of my favorite soccer stories, however, almost always include Kam Martinez,” said Peterson. “Even though she isn't blood-related, I consider her family. She and I have been best friends since fifth grade. We have had some incredible moments on the pitch together. We have had some amazing wins and probably just as many losses. I wouldn't be the player or person I am without her.”  

Peterson, who will continue her soccer career at Virginia Military Institute next year, has extended her leadership skills through being the class mentor for the Key Club, a leadership team member for Club 412 and FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes), and a treasurer for TSA (Technology Student Association). She also volunteers her time at The Way Station Food Pantry.

Heading into the final stretch of the season, Peterson believes her team can make a deep postseason run due to their long-standing ties with each other.

“Richmond Hill is kind of a small town, and I have grown up playing soccer with most of the girls on the team,” said Peterson. “We were either on the same club team, or they played on Eliza's club team. It makes it much easier for the chemistry to form because it has been there for a very long time. I think this year, more than ever, we have what it takes to go far in the playoffs.”