The 2026 Charlotte Observer girls’ soccer all‑star team shines with a story of dominance and record‑breaking achievement. Headlining the selections are Charlotte Catholic’s coach Gary Hoilett and senior forward Marquerite McPhillips, the architects of a season that culminated in a state championship and a No. 1 national ranking.
A Coach’s Milestone
Gary Hoilett added another chapter to his storied career by securing his ninth title this year. With more than 900 career games under his belt, the coach guided the Cougars to victories in both the boys’ and girls’ brackets, underscoring his dual‑program expertise and cementing his status as one of the most accomplished mentors in North Carolina soccer.
Marquerite McPhillips, the senior forward who led the attack, posted 23 goals and 13 assists, steering her squad to a perfect 24‑0‑1 record. Her performance not only earned her a spot on the all‑star team but also placed her at the center of a national conversation about the rising competitiveness of high school girls’ soccer.
Star Players Across the State
The all‑star roster reads like a who’s who of emerging talent. Lucy Chin, a junior from Marvin Ridge, contributed 25 goals and 11 assists, propelling her team into the top 30 nationally. Amaya Falzarano, senior star from Myers Park, netted 25 goals and eight assists en route to an 8A state championship. Mary Martin‑Spinner, also from Charlotte Catholic, recorded 21 goals and 22 assists, helping her team retain a No. 1 national position.
Other notable contributors include Olivia Miller of Hough, who posted 23 goals and 13 assists, and Peyton Peterson, a freshman from Pine Lake Prep, who exploded onto the scene with 46 goals and 13 assists, ranking sixth among freshmen nationwide. Addison Pierce, a junior from Christ The King, scored 44 goals and 14 assists, marking her team’s fourth straight state title.
The midfield and defensive pillars also deserve recognition. Victoria Christiansen, a sophomore from Pine Lake Prep, dished out 26 assists while finding the net 10 times, forming part of a four‑time state championship side. Devin McElroy of Providence Day tallied 17 goals and 15 assists, guiding her squad to an NCISAA championship. Braelyn Iosue, a senior from Pine Lake Prep, anchored a defense that kept clean sheets in every state final.
Taylor Kleinschmidt, a senior from Ardrey Kell, helped her team capture a sixth consecutive conference title with four goals and three assists. Riley Pickels, another senior from Hough, recorded 17 shutouts in 26 appearances, allowing just nine goals throughout the season. Regan Truxillo, also from Charlotte Catholic, contributed to a defensive unit that conceded only seven goals in 25 games.
The collective effort of these athletes reflects a broader surge in girls’ soccer across North Carolina. With multiple schools cracking the top 40 national polls and several programs achieving unbeaten streaks, the state is quickly becoming a hotbed for talent that could shape the next generation of collegiate and professional players.