Finishing last year’s season second in state is very challenging to follow, but the LT varsity girls soccer team is determined to come back this year even stronger. The team is returning without last year’s seniors, many of which went on to continue their soccer careers in college. However, this year’s lineup, already containing two senior commits, is beginning to start their preparation for yet another impressive season, according to varsity head coach William Lanspeary. 

“We bring back a really strong core of returning players,” Lanspeary said. “There are many outstanding players throughout our program that are ready to step up.”

Last year, due to COVID-19, the team’s schedule was altered and they could only play against conference opponents, according to Lanspeary. However, this year, they’ll go back to their non-conference game schedule as well. The girls are aiming to be conference champions, and stay healthy and ready to continue into playoffs, he said. 

“Our conference is challenging,” Lanspeary said. “But it’s always good to get out and play teams outside of the conference to see how you measure up against teams from other areas.”

Luckily, according to Lanspeary, they didn’t face too many challenges from COVID-19 last year. The biggest issue was building the team’s chemistry and camaraderie. This year, with the return of team activities like pasta parties, Lanspeary is excited to see how the girls bond on and off the field.

Returning player, Kate Fulscher ‘22, has been playing soccer since she was 4 years old, and is hoping to continue with club soccer entering college. Considering how far the girls went last year, Fulscher believes it is important to stay focused this season and not put too much pressure on themselves both individually, and as a team, she said. 

“I’m looking forward to building new bonds, strengthening old ones, and making many memories with this year’s team, as well as beating our rival school, Hinsdale Central,” she said.  

Fulscher is going to miss everything from friendships, to running and conditioning, as she finishes off her last year of high school soccer.

“There is definitely a difference between a friend and a teammate,” Fulscher said. “And when those two combine, it’s just a great energy you get to experience every time you go play.”

Reilly Chesna ‘22, is making her comeback as well, and has been playing soccer since she was 5 years old. Chesna plans to also play in college, but for now is focusing on this season. She is excited to play teams outside of their conference, like New Trier, who she says is always neck and neck with them. Chesna has been playing club with some of the seniors since fourth grade and isn’t exactly looking forward to watching everyone go their separate ways, she said. 

“I’m very excited to meet the new people who are going to make the team this year,” Chesna said. “It’s fun to get to know the younger girls from the younger classes and create friendships with them as well.”

The girls play their first home game at NC West Field against Downers Grove North High School on April 5 at 4:30 p.m.