A Renewed Hope for the Lions
After a 14‑6 campaign that fell just short of the District 2 Class A playoffs, the Lackawanna Trail High School field hockey squad is channeling the momentum of a strong offseason into a fresh campaign. Head coach Holly Holgate‑Colvin has emphasized teamwork, leadership and continuous improvement, setting the tone for a group eager to reclaim its place among the elite in the Wyoming Valley Conference.
Senior forward Emma Thomas returns as the team’s offensive anchor, having amassed 38 points last season with 11 goals and 16 assists. Joining her on the attack will be junior defender London Lisk, the recent defensive player of the year, and senior goalkeeper Payton Laytos, who brings valuable experience between the posts. Freshman goaltender Katarina Borick is also expected to contribute immediately, adding depth to the circle.
The roster also showcases a wave of promising newcomers. Sophomore Lyla Ryon, who burst onto the scene with 25 goals and 18 assists as a freshman and earned honorable‑mention all‑state honors, will look to build on her breakout performance. A talented freshmen class, many of whom honed their skills in junior high competition, is expected to make an early impact and inject new energy into the lineup.
The Lions’ schedule features battles against traditional rivals such as Nanticoke Area, Hanover Area and Wilkes‑Barre Area, each game presenting a test of the team’s chemistry and resilience. With a blend of seasoned leaders and eager underclassmen, the squad aims to translate its offseason work into consistent results on the field.
Beyond individual talent, the program’s storied history fuels the players’ ambition. Generations of legends have donned the Lions’ colors, and the current roster is determined to add its own chapter to that legacy. As the season unfolds, the focus remains on collective growth, strategic execution and the pursuit of a playoff run that reflects the program’s rich tradition.