BOCA RATON, Fla. - The Lynn women's soccer team is ready to continue their momentum from last season into 2024 under the helm of head coach John Markey.  

The Fighting Knights ended the 2023 season strong, winning four of their last six games. While Markey has guided the Fighting Knights to their best three-year stretch in a decade, he knows his team needs to keep climbing the ladder to compete in the tough Sunshine State Conference. "I think it's about peaking at the right time," Markey said. "We have a phenomenal returning group, which will hopefully help us hit our stride earlier." 

Returning captains Saga Jontoft and Grace Guidry are entering their fourth year with the Fighting Knights and are expected to be pivotal in the team's dynamics this season. "They are phenomenal leaders with different leadership styles, which is amazing because they really complement each other. So, I am really excited to see what they do," said Markey.    

Isabella Battista, who played in 17 games and made seven starts last season, is another returning player expected to make an impact. Battista registered six shots on goal from the defense and played 814 total minutes, including a crucial assist in Lynn's game-winning goal against Saint Anselm. "She's a superstar young player that we're really excited about," added Markey.  

Junior Kayla Bradby is set to take on even more responsibility this year as she dons the number 10 jersey, a significant number for the team. "We are excited to see what junior Kayla looks like. She's got a lot of leadership qualities that are going to come out this year," Markey stated. Other players to watch are Kayleigh Merchant and K'La Barne-Blackwood, both young returners who coach Markey expects to be "very impactful this year." 

In goal, Brooke Auth is set to continue her solid performance as the last line of defense. Last season, Auth started 16 matches, boasting a 1.25 GAA, a .789 save percentage, and recording six shutouts. She ranked 10th among all DII freshmen with 75 saves. "Brooke's such an exciting goalkeeper. She can pass the ball around the field like a field player, has the athleticism to command her box, and really grew into a leadership role that you need a goalkeeper to be. Our entire goalkeeper group has us excited," said Markey.  

 

There will also be plenty of new contributors to a team that added five freshmen and nine transfers. "We also have a great blend of freshmen and experienced transfers coming in," Markey added. "We have a lot of depth and tremendous leadership on this team."  

The Fighting Knights will open the 2024 season on Sept. 5 at 4:00pm at St. Edwards. The first home game is on Sept. 13th at 6:00 pm where they will face West Florida.