Nevada’s Faith Lutheran girls soccer program has become synonymous with dominance, having captured back‑to‑back 5A state championships and now eyeing a historic third straight title.
The Crusaders return a core that blends proven firepower with fresh chemistry, led by Kloe Abdalla, the 2025 Class 5A Player of the Year, and Julia Anfinson, who contributed 14 goals last season.
Their recent triumph over Coronado illustrates their resilience; a 1‑0 overtime win was sealed by a decisive penalty from Anfinson, underscoring the team’s clutch pedigree.
However, the roster will look different. Nine seniors, including three‑year starter Olivia Petty in goal, have departed, prompting the coaching staff to address depth concerns.
Coach Carl Cort’s emphasis on chemistry
Coach Carl Cort emphasizes that chemistry, rather than mere talent, will be the catalyst for another championship run, pointing to the technical and tactical foundations built over the offseason.
Coronado, the 5A runner‑up, brings back leading scorer Taylor Takahashi and first‑team defender Ella Schultz, while Arbor View returns goalkeeper Emily Marks and forward Danielle Morales, adding further intrigue to the league.
Doral Academy, fresh off a 4A title, aims to repeat in 5A despite graduating seven seniors, with returning scorers Dasha Rosas and Peyton Hedstrom poised to lead the charge.
The season will open at the South Lake Tahoe Soccer Showcase, where Faith Lutheran will meet Coronado, Bishop Gorman and Doral Academy in an early‑season test that could set the tone for the year.
With the top six of eight 5A teams advancing to the playoffs and the first two earning byes to the semifinals, the stakes are high, and the Crusaders are determined to translate preseason optimism into another trophy.