The Lakeland girls soccer team is stepping onto the field this spring with a clear vision: to translate early‑season promise into a sustained run of success. After reaching the Section 1 Class AA quarterfinals a year ago, the Hornets are eager to capitalize on the momentum generated by a talented core that returns with experience and determination.
At the heart of the attack is Gianna Pace, a creative striker whose skill with the ball is matched by her artistic flair. Pace not only netted 22 goals last season but also contributed 10 assists, underscoring her dual threat. Off the pitch, she expresses her personality through intricate henna designs that adorn her hand, turning each match into a canvas for both sport and art.
The midfield will be anchored by Margaret Keating, an all‑section selection known for her defensive acumen and ability to launch quick transitions. Alongside her, goalkeeper Amelia Calisi brings poise and sharp positioning, qualities that have earned her praise for making crucial saves in high‑pressure moments.
Coaching Insight
Coach Greg Doell has been pleased with the team’s chemistry, noting that summer league competitions provided a valuable laboratory for experimentation. ‘We’ve seen the players gel in ways that go beyond tactics,’ Doell said, highlighting the blend of veteran leadership and youthful energy that defines the squad.
The preseason slate features tests against familiar rivals such as Yorktown, Mahopac and Albertus Magnus, as well as regional foes like Carmel, Nyack and Mamaroneck. Each matchup offers a chance to fine‑tune strategies while gauging the progress of younger players who impressed during the summer circuit.
Beyond the tactical work, the Hornets’ off‑field camaraderie has become a distinguishing feature. Their Instagram feed, peppered with light‑hearted posts and behind‑the‑scenes glimpses, reflects a squad that enjoys spending time together, a factor that Doell believes can translate into tighter on‑field coordination.
With a schedule that pits them against some of the league’s elite, Lakeland’s ambitions extend beyond merely replicating last year’s achievements. The coaching staff and players alike are focused on incremental improvement, aiming to climb the standings and contend for a deeper playoff run as the season unfolds.