Highs, Lows, and Unbreakable Spirit

From the very start of today’s matches, the Hawks showed resilience and determination, facing every challenge with immense pride and effort. 

In the morning, the first volleyball match EABH played was against Chapel. EABH had kicked the day off in a tough way, struggling to find their rhythm early in the game. Chapel quickly took control of the first set, closing it at 25-17. The second set followed a similar pattern, with EABH unable to fully respond to the pressure, ending in a 25-13 loss. Despite the loss, the Hawks didn’t allow the setback to define them, continuing to fight until the very last point, including in the friendly third set.

Next, the Lady Hawks faced Sant’anna wolves in an exciting futsal match. In a matter of only six minutes, Laura Calixto found the net, representing EABH with pride and confidence. Mid-game, however, the team faced a moment of tension as a collective wave of fatigue began to set in. The Hawks didn’t let that moment overpower their eagerness to represent the school. That being said, our athletes Bruna Gontijo and Marina Cambraia made sure that the EABH spirit stayed alive, each contributing with goals on the court. After securing a 3-0 victory, the Hawks were optimistic and looking forward to the upcoming games.

If the last match was controlled, this one was completely unpredictable. Facing EARJ Panthers, the Lady Hawks played another futsal match; this time, filled with intensity from start to finish.

The dispute did not belong only to the court—right from the beginning, the crowd made sure to make their presence known. As chants echoed from both sides of the court, the energy shifted and expectations were set for a thrilling match. 

The Hawks started strong, with Brunna opening the score and Marina Cambraia stepping up with not just one, but two goals, putting EABH ahead. As the stakes were high, it felt like the game was already  in their hands. But EARJ responded. In the second half, the Panthers found the net three times, leveling the match and shifting the momentum completely.

This match was especially marked by the exceptional performance of our goalkeeper, Gabi Muzzi, who reminded everyone of who we are and what we stand for. With a sequence of incredible saves throughout the match, she represented EABH in the best way possible, keeping the spirit alive and holding the team together when it mattered the most.

Gabi Muzzi, EABH goalkeeper, defending in the penalties.

With the scores tied at 3-3, the game moved to penalties. Laura Calixto delivered a confident strike, while Gabi Muzzi delivered two crucial saves, giving the Hawks hope. However, after a sequence of missed shots and unpredictable moments, the result slipped away. After a 2-1 loss in penalties, the Hawks walked out of the court in frustration. Not only because they weren’t capable, but because sometimes, even when you give your all, it still isn’t enough.

To close the day, the Hawks returned to the volleyball court. Carrying the weight of everything that had just happened, frustration was visible in their eyes. From the very first point, the energy felt off. Still, Jakob Timmerman stepped up with important saves that kept the spirit alive when all of it felt lost.  Bernardo Dias gave everything in every play, refusing to let the ball drop without fighting before. Coach Laura worked constantly, adjusting the lineup and searching for a way to bring the team back into the game.

But sometimes, all the effort put into the game can still not be enough. The frustration was visible—it was not only out of defeat, but because the Hawks knew they hadn’t reached their full potential. Even so, they remained on the court until the very end of the last friendly set; not because it was easy, but because that’s what they wanted to represent—even when everything feels lost, it’s important to keep going.

Although the day was filled with highs and lows, the Hawks kept standing by each other no matter the circumstances. After all, that’s what we do—stand by each other at our best and worst moments.