Baldwin's Young Core Shines in 6-0 Preseason Scrimmage Rout of Barrack Hebrew Academy

With a dominant blend of youthful energy and sharp execution, The Baldwin School Polar Bears opened their preseason with an emphatic 6-0 home victory over Barrack Hebrew Academy on Thursday, August 28. Sophomore midfielder Sierra Gilbert set the tone early with a composed finish off a clever feed from freshman forward Claire Hsia, and from there, the Polar Bears never looked back. Hsia, who was electric throughout, added two more goals before halftime — first on a solo volley from the top of the box, then finishing off a pinpoint assist from fellow freshman Elise Skawinski — giving Baldwin a commanding 3-0 lead at the break.

The second half continued to showcase Baldwin's depth and composure, particularly from their underclassmen. Hsia completed her hat trick just minutes into the second period, this time converting a well-weighted cross from freshman midfielder Avery Stoops. An own goal made it 5-0, and sophomore forward Sophie Welsh capped the scoring late, slotting home a pass from sophomore midfielder Kate Pulsifer. In goal, junior Anaka Boyd-Volz and sophomore Sophia Gill shared the shutout, combining for three saves to keep the Cougars off the scoresheet.

“I am very happy with the performance and result,” head coach Adrian Cox said postgame. “The preseason has been very positive and all the players are working hard, listening, learning and excited for the fall season. We have a young team with 24 freshmen and sophomores combined. It is going to be a lot of fun coaching this team and watching everyone grow and develop on and off the field.”

Baldwin will officially kick off their 2025 campaign on the road at Cardinal O’Hara High School on Wednesday, September 3 at 3:45 p.m.