Lake Flyers head coach Chad Lillich is entering his second year of a deliberate rebuild, one that leans heavily on the varsity experience accumulated last season. The squad finished 11‑6‑1 in 2023, going 5‑1 in NBC play, and returns a core of 24 players who have already tasted the intensity of competitive soccer.
Among those returning are two seniors who will anchor the attack: forward Evan Barta and midfielder Brayden Arndt‑Schimmel. They will be joined by sophomore forward Zeke Ackerman and midfielders Keegan Perry and Jack Byington, the latter bringing valuable travel‑team exposure to the lineup.
Defensively, Gabe Sarabia stands out as the team’s most reliable center back. A Second Team All‑NBC selection, Sarabia’s presence should shore up a back line that lost six seniors but still features a blend of youth and seasoned poise.
In goal, the Flyers will rely on Nolan Pieper, who stepped in for parts of last season and helped the team capture a sectional title. Now the full‑time starter, Pieper is expected to rank among the league’s elite net‑minders.
Coach Lillich says the objective is clear: compete for the league title if the group stays healthy and disciplined. With a mix of returning veterans and promising newcomers, the Flyers hope to translate their early‑season momentum into a sustained push for the championship.
A New Era of Scoring and Defense
The offensive philosophy this year will be more team‑oriented, spreading the scoring load across the field rather than relying on a single star. That approach, combined with Sarabia’s defensive solidity, could give Lake the balance needed to challenge the top clubs.