Emma Lee ('27)
Soccer ball on the field.
After winning California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) NorCal last season and winning Central Coast Section (CCS) for the past three years, the Saint Francis girls’ varsity soccer team is back and ready to take the field by storm. Entering the season with confidence and momentum, the Lancers have already made a statement on the field and are setting their hopes high, once again.
Arya Jamkhandi (’26) says that the team, consisting of 25 girls, has aspirations to conquer the West Catholic Athletic League (WCAL), and then dominate in CCS. To round up the season, they hope to return to the CIF competition with hopes to take home the title for the second year in a row. The team currently holds an impressive 9-0-1 overall record, starting the season off strong.
The Lancers kicked off their season with a victory over Homestead High School, setting the tone for the season. Since then, Saint Francis has continued to win on the field, with their one tie being against Saint Ignatius High School. Despite their confident start to the season, however, Jamkhandi acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead. When asked about potential tough games, she noted Archbishop Mitty High School and Saint Ignatius as their strongest competition this season. While Jamkhandi states that the Lancers are not nervous for any particular match, she recognizes that those teams will push the Lancers to perform their best.
Beyond their wins and rankings, what truly sets this team apart is their chemistry and culture. Jamkhandi highlighted one tradition as a key factor to their success, especially during their home games. Before kickoff, the Lancers gather in the locker room for a hype session filled with music and energy-building through singing, dancing, and shared excitement for what’s to come. These moments allow the team to bond, release nerves, and prepare to take on their opponents.
Looking ahead, Jamkhandi says that she is most “excited to see what [they] can do” this year. With confidence in their ability and trust in one another, the Lancers are eager to test themselves against top competition and continue racking up victories. With an undefeated record, strong leadership, and a championship mindset, the Saint Francis girls’ varsity soccer team is poised for another remarkable season. As WCAL play intensifies and postseason competition approaches, one thing is clear: the Lancers are ready to take the field by storm once again. Make sure to come support the Lancers on January 31, at their home game against California High School!