Grace Cosgrove’s final season as a forward on Emerson’s women’s soccer team ended on a triumphant individual note, even though the team’s playoff run was cut short.  

Cosgrove, a senior who has played on the team since her first year, was named to the New England Women’s and Men’s Athletic Conference First Team All-Conference for her play on the field. She said it was bittersweet to be leaving the team.

“It will definitely feel weird not playing anymore considering I’ve played all my life,” Cosgrove said. “I’m thankful for the memories and great experiences I’ve had over the years.”

Cosgrove never failed to show up for the Lions on the field. In 2018, she started in all 19 games, collecting four goals and one assist. In 2019, she led the team scoring eight goals and recorded her first career hat-trick. 

Her 2020 season may have been taken away by the COVID-19 pandemic, but her senior season was a success, as she recorded six goals and three assists.  Cosgrove, who has played on the women’s team since her first year at the college, said soccer became a central part of her life at a young age.

“The sport of soccer, in general, has taught me so much,” she said. “It’s been such a big part of my life for so many years.”

Cosgrove worked her way up the team hierarchy quickly—becoming a leader for her teammates and eventually being named a captain for her senior season. The team’s head coach, David Suvak said Cosgrove was always able to make the right play in the midfield.

“Grace brings a very smart, technical, and athletic aspect to our team in the midfield,” Suvak said. “She controls the tempo and playmaking style that brings us success.”

During her illustrious career, Cosgrove racked up a number of awards—including a NEWMAC Women’s Soccer Offensive Player of the Week award, a spot in the NEWMAC Women’s Soccer All-Academic team and the NEWMAC Women’s Soccer Offensive Player of the Week. Despite her many accomplishments, she said her fondest memory this season was beating Springfield. 

“In my career here at Emerson we have never beaten them and they have eliminated us both times from the playoffs my freshman and sophomore year,” Cosgrove said. 

Suvak said Cosgrove stands out as a player because of her upbeat approach to the game. 

“She has a leadership quality to uplift our team in training and in match competitions,” he said. “She truly makes playing NCAA soccer a pleasure to play and coach.”

Fellow Co-Captain Cali Bruce, a junior, said Cosgrove had a tremendous impact on the team and has been able to lead effectively. 

“She has played a big role in getting us to where we are today, on and off of the field,” Bruce said. “She puts in 100 percent effort every practice and game, and pushes all of us to do the same.”

Although Bruce will miss playing with Cosgrove on the field, she will miss her friendship even more. 

“I will miss her listening ear the most,” Bruce said. “She is such a good problem solver, and always approaches conversations with curiosity and kindness—and I know I am not alone in this sentiment. She is such a positive role model and good friend to everyone on the team.”

The Lion’s season came to a close after a 1-0 defeat against Wheaton College in the NEWMAC Quarterfinals. Cosgrove said the 2021 season took on special significance because of her role as co-captain

“Having the position as captain was new but it was something I was ready to step into,” Cosgrove said. 

After graduation, Cosgrove said she will move back to California in an effort to work in the film industry, with the ultimate goal of moving to New York City. 

Cosgrove said she hopes the team will continue to put in the effort necessary to succeed after her departure, and she expressed her gratitude toward her teammates. 

“Work hard and work with each other because working as a team is the most important part of the game,” Cosgrove said. “I wanted to say thanks to my teammates over these past four years that have made my time here at Emerson amazing and memorable.”