After a down season last year in which they lost more games than they won, the Lincoln High School girls soccer team is determined to rewrite its story. They have had a solid start, notching two wins in their first three games, with victories over North Smithfield and Cranston West, and a narrow 3-2 loss to La Salle.
To achieve that change, Head Coach Christina Maciel has emphasized a focus on teamwork, discipline, and steady improvement in practice. Last season was a mix of highs and lows for the Lions. They opened with strong energy and a few exciting wins, but inconsistency in the middle of the season kept them from building the streak they needed. Although they fell short of a playoff spot, the team showed flashes of potential that have carried into this year, giving players confidence that they can turn close games into victories.
“So trying to maintain our style of play, but sustain the pressure from other teams that were playing is going to be tough,” said Maciel. “So we need to stay healthy to get all the way to achieve our goals.”
Captain Abigail Kapadia has also played a key role in setting the tone for the season. As a leader, she’s very encouraging to all her teammates and sets a good example for the team’s future. Building off that leadership, the Lions are focusing on turning last year’s struggles into lessons that will push them forward. Players have been working hard in practice to improve their consistency and are determined to make every game count this season.
“My goal for the team is to make it to the playoffs this year, and hopefully win,” said Kapadia “I hope we can at some point win six games in a row, but we have already started this season off better than last year!”
This positive attitude will be especially important as the team looks to compete against tough league opponents in the upcoming weeks such as schools like South Kingstown, Smithfield, and Chariho.
Last season the Lions got off to a slow start and struggled to find consistency, managing a few wins here and there but never quite building the momentum they needed. They finished the season with a 7-9-1 regular season record, but after winning a preliminary round playoff game, they were knocked out in the quarterfinals by Cumberland.
The Lions will take on South Kingstown High School next on the road on Thursday 9/11.
