Preseason for Marblehead’s girls soccer team kicks off Aug. 18, and head coach Lisa Wales is eager to begin her third season at the helm.
The Magicians return much of last year’s roster that went 9-4-5, including 10 seniors and all but two starters. Ava Machado and Sophie Robinson are the only departures from the starting lineup.
“We’ve got a great group returning,” Wales said. “We’re excited and looking forward to the season.”
Among returners are captains Sydney Ball, Sadie Halpern and Ashley Mortensen. Halpern and junior Ainsley McDonald are both working back from ACL surgeries from last November.
“Ainsley and Sadie have worked so incredibly hard to get back,” Wales said. “Sadie is almost there, but Ainsley has been cleared to return to play. We’re thrilled to have them back for the season.”
McDonald was cleared July 29, but Wales said the coaching staff will be careful not to rush either player.
“We want to do it right and work with their physical therapists and our trainer to make sure they come back on their own timeline,” Wales said. “It’s not an easy surgery — it’s a full nine months of recovery. They’ve done all the work to put themselves in the best position possible and we’re so proud of them.”
Injuries were a major storyline last season.
“We dealt with two ACL injuries, four concussions, sprained ankles — you name it, we had it,” Wales said. “But with those injuries, it also gave an opportunity for a lot of our players to step up and they did. I think that shows the character and resilience of our team. We always want to do better than the previous year.”
Wales praised the depth and commitment of the program, which will have more than 60 players trying out for three teams.
“Our expectations are always high,” Wales said. “We have a strong youth program and a lot of athletes here play club and they’re just really committed.”
Among players to watch is junior forward Callie Gilmore, who led the team in scoring last year with 15 goals.
“She just sees the field well,” Wales said. “Her timing on runs and her nose for the goal are excellent. I expect her to have an even bigger year.”
Wales also highlighted junior midfielder Lucy McDonald.
“She’s tough as nails,” Wales said. “If you get by her – which is incredibly difficult to do – she makes you work for it. She’s physical and controls the midfield. Her level of play has elevated everyone else’s level of play physically.”
Wales highlighted the strength of the Northeastern Conference, and knows her team needs to be ready.
“Masconomet won the division and the Division 2 state title and are always a strong team,” Wales said. “Danvers is always strong, and I think Beverly will be very good this year. I never want to wish summer away, but I’m really excited for soccer season.”
With a deep senior class, key players returning from injuries, and a roster brimming with experience, Marblehead enters the fall with high expectations.
