The 2026 girls soccer season in Chittenden County will open on August 28, kicking off a schedule that will end with championship games on October 30‑31. Ten schools from the region are poised to battle for playoff spots, each bringing a mix of returning starters, fresh talent and new coaching directions.
Burlington High School: a blend of youth and experience
Under Coach Jeff Hayes, Burlington enters the campaign with 15 returnees and just two seniors, creating a roster that balances fresh energy with seasoned leadership. The team’s fitness focus aims to sustain intensity for the full 80 minutes, a strategy that could prove decisive in tight contests.
Champlain Valley Union: defending depth while coping with a key loss
The defending champions return 10 players, including All‑State selections Elliana Antonucci and Sierra Rainey, but must replace Elsa Klein, the 2025 Free Press and Gatorade player of the year, who is sidelined by an ACL injury. Coach Mike McGuire expects the back line to remain solid while exploring new attacking options.
Colchester and Essex: rebuilding around seasoned cores
Colchester’s Emma Pedrin will lead a squad that lost seven seniors but retains a strong core, while Essex brings eight returning starters under Coach Dallas Brodhead. Both teams are looking to fill gaps left by departed midfielders and maintain their competitive edge in the division.
Milton’s rebuilding year
Milton is in a rebuilding phase after losing most of its senior class. Grace Dowling will act as the connective thread between defense and attack, with Lily Daunais providing veteran presence in goal. The team’s focus on teamwork and fitness seeks to accelerate growth early in the season.
Mount Mansfield and Rice Memorial: addressing departures
Mount Mansfield returns 19 players, including playoff call‑ups, but must replace Mallory Chicoine, Chloe DeJong and Sofia Randall. Rice Memorial will miss Peyton Borick and Reese Billings, who contributed heavily in 2025, and will rely on new goalkeeper Madi Lacy to stabilize the back end.
South Burlington and Winooski: new faces, same goals
South Burlington’s new coach Paul Membrino counts on midfielders Julia Conway and Josie Maxwell to boost goal production, while Winooski’s championship aspirations rest on Ketila Selemani, who set a single‑season scoring record last year. Both programs are looking to translate strong offseason work into on‑field results.