Claire Gaston is the student liaison for Mater Dei Prep’s Women’s Leadership Committee and the senior is without question leading by example. The senior who is committed to play college soccer as a goalkeeper at Misericordia University has joined the Mater Dei Prep football team serving as the team’s kicker on extra points and field goals. Gaston credits the entire team and fellow kicker Richie Pekmezian for helping her with the transition from soccer to football. Pekmezian will join the team following his required 30-day transfer rule. Until then, it’s up to Gaston to put the ball through the uprights for a team that is currently ranked No.5 in the latest state polls. And she’s quickly made an impact. After going two for four on extra points in her football debut against Brick Township, Gaston delivered five straight extra points in the Seraphs 41-7 win over Jackson Memorial. While Carli Lloyd ponders a future kicking in the NFL, JSZ profiles another Jersey soccer standout who’s already kicking through barriers:
Claire is helping raise money for the Kevin Attridge Women’s Leadership Challenge. Named in honor of a legendary Mater Dei coach who championed women’s sports, you can learn more about what the Seraphs are looking to do to give increased opportunities and female athletes here: LINK – Kevin Attridge Women’s Leadership Challenge
