The Lake Minneola girls soccer program is experiencing a resurgence, powered by one of the youngest varsity lineups in the region and a renewed mindset focused on “Building a Legacy of Excellence.” Four years after the Hawks’ state Final Four appearance, the team has rebuilt with a combination of strong senior leadership and a talented wave of underclassmen.

With 7–8 freshmen and sophomores regularly starting, Lake Minneola has opened the season 6-0-1, outscoring opponents 32–2 and earning key wins over East Ridge and Forest. Head Coach Bryon Kelso, who returned to LMHS after years of success leading the boys program, says the chance to guide the girls team has been deeply meaningful.

“I’m super excited for this opportunity,” he says. “We’ve been absolutely blessed with a phenomenal group of players. My goal is to build a program that’s not only competitive, but a positive and memorable part of their high school experience.”

Seniors Cali Pulver and Marley Greene anchor the roster alongside returning contributors Xylah Rodriguez, Daisy Fernandez and Reagan Krepcho. Senior Ivy Valenta, out for the season, has become the team’s emotional and spiritual leader on the sideline. First-year senior Brianna Melgar-Jerez brings a strong presence and experience, and senior multi-sport athlete Bella Matthews is developing quickly as a goalkeeper.

The juniors—Austyn Krepcho, Sydney Toler and Francesca Guadamuz—have provided steady early-season impact. Sophomore standouts Auna Rowe (13 goals), Chelsea Clarke (5 goals) and Luna Valdes (4 goals) continue their strong progression and are proving to be young leaders on the team. Fellow sophomore Sophie Scott has elevated her play as well. New sophomores Eliz Hernandez and Gaby Martinez have made immediate contributions with versatility and athleticism.

A large freshman class has transformed the roster. Goalkeeper Ella Tabone opened her varsity career with six straight shutouts. Freshmen Emma Wasilewski, Emma Henne and Emma Gosselin have started every match and brought technical skill and high-energy intensity, while Taralyn Bolden, Grace Loftis and Gigi Doll add important depth.

Kelso credits his staff—Assistant Coach Mary Dube and JV Coach Harris—for developing the team’s foundation, especially with so many newcomers. The program also receives strong support from across campus, including Principal Roberts, enthusiastic teachers and FCA leaders. The team also acknowledged custodian Mr. Danny for building the new soccer goals the players now enjoy.

Senior captain Cali Pulver says the team can feel the momentum shifting.

“The season has been super fun and motivating so far,” she says. “We’ve already grown so much as a team and you can feel how much potential we still have. It’s exciting to be a part of the growth and I really enjoy playing with everyone.”

With a tougher schedule ahead, Lake Minneola knows its story is still being written — but the program believes its next chapter is only just beginning.

Photos provided