Baldwin Bears Show Grit, But Fall 1-0 to Rival Agnes Irwin in Inter-Ac Opener

In the kind of tightly-contested, early-season showdown that can set the tone for league play, the Baldwin School Polar Bears found themselves on the wrong end of a 1-0 decision against Inter-Academic League rival Agnes Irwin on Tuesday afternoon.

For Baldwin (5-1 overall, 0-1 Inter-Ac), it was a test of resilience and structure against a more seasoned and dynamic AIS side. Despite the early setback — a fifth-minute tap-in by the Owls after a defensive miscue at the top of the penalty area — the Polar Bears didn’t fold. In fact, they responded with the kind of defensive grit and collective effort that may define them going forward.

“I am proud of our team effort and organization,” said head coach Adrian Cox postgame. “AIS has a lot of experience, skill, and depth. They can create opportunities in a variety of ways, and they apply excellent pressure on the ball. This was a game we’ll learn from, and I believe it will help us in future league matchups.”

The Owls controlled large stretches of possession, outshooting Baldwin 17-1 and forcing nine corners, but they couldn't find a second breakthrough thanks in large part to junior goalkeeper Anaka Boyd-Volz, who turned in a commanding performance between the posts with 14 saves.

Boyd-Volz was well-protected by a backline that continues to show promise despite its youth. Freshman center back Mia Wendler and junior co-captain Kyla Walker anchored a defensive unit that absorbed pressure, blocked shots, and disrupted a skillful and athletic AIS attack that often looked poised to double its lead.

“They stayed compact, communicated, and made it tough for AIS to find the final ball,” Cox said of his backline. “That’s not easy against a team that moves the ball as well as they do.”

Despite the defensive heroics, Baldwin struggled to build rhythm in the attacking third. Their lone shot on goal came midway through the first half — a promising strike from 20 yards out on the right side by freshman midfielder Elise Skawinski that forced a routine save from the AIS keeper. Half-chances followed, but a final ball or decisive dribble was consistently stifled by a well-drilled Owls defense.

Still, the long view remains optimistic for Cox and the Polar Bears, who are fielding a lineup that includes six freshmen and three sophomores. Tuesday’s loss, though frustrating, may serve as a critical step in the maturation of this young group.

“These games are going to help them become mentally and physically tougher,” Cox said. “There’s a lot we’ll take away that will make us be a more dangerous team down the road.”

Baldwin returns to non-league action Friday, Sept. 19, when they host Friends’ Central at 4 p.m. on Lower Field — a chance to rebound, recalibrate, and take another step forward in what’s shaping up to be a defining season.

Up Next:
🗓 Baldwin vs. Friends’ Central
📍 Lower Field, Bryn Mawr, PA
🕓 Friday, Sept. 19 | 4:00 PM