Compassionate, supportive, and positive — these are three words often used to describe Sabrina Cohen ‘26. Since playing soccer from a young age, Cohen has discovered the value of team bonding and finding joy in every moment. 

As a member of the soccer and basketball teams and the captain of the lacrosse team, Cohen is dedicated to spreading positivity and building team culture. Whether it’s making the underclassmen feel welcomed or cheering her teammates on during practice and games, Cohen’s leadership demonstrates that athleticism is more than about scoring points.

“Everyone has a role on the team,” Cohen said. “Knowing your role is more important than your skill level.”

Cohen recalls how sports have empowered her not only to grow as an athlete but also as a person.

“I was one of two freshmen who played lacrosse, so I learned to talk to the upperclassmen,” Cohen said. “It helped me come out of my shell and become more confident, which is really important because if you’re not confident, you can’t win, and you can’t do well.”

This confidence has helped Cohen step up as a leader. Laila Gopalani ‘26 admires how Cohen uses her confidence to lead initiatives she is passionate about.

“She likes to take charge of things, like planning the homecoming bonfire dance and choosing the music,” Gopalani said.

These fun traditions and memories are an essential part of Cohen’s athletic experience. In her sophomore and senior years, she scored two career goals. From being stormed on the field to creating a handshake ritual, she remembers both moments fondly.

“I might not be the most technically skilled on the field,” Cohen said. “But I try to make sure everyone’s having fun. That’s the most important part for me.”

Frequently called “the face of Baldwin Soccer” by varsity soccer coach Adrian Cox, Cohen’s outstanding leadership is apparent on the soccer field and beyond.

“She’s a really good leader,” soccer teammate Anaka Boyd-Volz ’27 said. “She’s always encouraging people, whether she’s on the field or not.” 

Often described as the warmest and most welcoming senior by classmates and faculty at Baldwin, Cohen continues striving to build close-knit bonds and strong team cultures at Baldwin.

“I love the team culture here at Baldwin: it’s why I play,” Cohen said. “Building the inter-grade bonds is really important, especially in basketball and lacrosse, which are small teams with many freshmen.”

Despite Cohen’s achievements in the athletic seasons, managing sports and academics has not always been easy. But over the years, she’s learned the importance of having sports as an outlet for stress and a space to exercise and have fun.

“It can be a lot, but I’ve learned that it’s not ‘I have to go to practice’ but ‘I get to go to practice,’” Cohen said.

As her time at Baldwin comes to an end, Cohen hopes to lead with gratitude and positivity by sharing it with others. 

“Every day, I try to ask someone how their day went,” Cohen said. “It can be comforting and help build connections off the field, which helps us play better and enjoy it more.” 

Most importantly, Cohen hopes to be remembered as someone who motivates people, a mindset that’s inspired by a speech from alumna Clara Page ‘22. 

“Don’t go into games with negativity because sports are supposed to be fun, just be a positive teammate,” Cohen said.