The 2025 Waseca High School girls’ soccer team. Frrnt from left: Khloe Fuller, Angelica Lopez, Hope Nelson, Sheila Driessen, Kelly Hernandez; row two: Delilah Veroeven. Reese Rodriguez, Reese Ludwig, Ava Bruhn, Rachel Mielke, Rylee Schaffer.; back: head coach Phil Bulfer, coach Jay Bulfer, Liz Aboki, Ella Bulfer, Jacey Jensen, coach Anastasia Garza, coach Neil Johanssen
Coach expecting exciting season for WHS girls' soccer
A competitive and memorable season.
That's what head coach Philip Bulfer expects from the 2025 Waseca High School girls' soccer team.
The program continues with similar numbers to recent years, featuring 34 players this fall, with a solid mix of returning veterans and talented underclassmen.
"Our underclassmen program is looking extremely strong," said Bulfer. "And we are hoping that our numbers increase to pre-COVID roster sizes as we continue to have a great influx of young players coming into the program. With this balance of experience and emerging talent, we are excited for a competitive and promising season."
Key returnees for the Bluejays: senior Ella Bulfer, goaltender and captain, who had a standout junior season with 120 saves, earning recognition as one of the top goalkeepers in the conference; senior captain Chloe Fuller, a composed leader who sets the standard for effort and teamwork in the midfield; senior attacker Ava Brun, returning from an injury that sidelined her most of last season; Riley Schaefer senior, midfield/attacker) had an impressive preseason and is primed to be a major contributor. Her speed, vision, and finishing ability make her an exciting threat in the attack.; and sophomore defender Reese Rodriguez, a key part of the back line, she brought stability and speed to the defense last season after the graduation of core seniors. This year, she'll be relied upon to anchor the defense and set the tone in the backfield.
Rising talent, according to Coach Bulfer, are Rachel Mielke, an 8thgrader who has already shown tremendous promise and skill; and freshman Delilan Varont, an exciting, strong defender who will start alongside Rodriguez. Their defensive dynamic is expected to dramatically slow down opponents’ attacks and bring strength and stability to the back line.
The Bluejays have five seniors in Fuller, Brun, Schaefer, Ella Bulfer and Hope Nelson.
"This year’s senior class is the foundation of our program’s leadership, bringing experience, grit, and commitment both on and off the field," said Coach Bulfer. "Their leadership will set the tone for a competitive and memorable season." B
ulfer, in his sevnth year with the program, is assisted by Jay Bulfer, Anastasia Garza and Neil Johannsen