BOCA RATON, Fla. – The Lynn University women's soccer team enters the 2025 season with optimism, experience, and a renewed determination to climb the Sunshine State Conference standings under fifth-year head coach
John Markey.
The Fighting Knights battled through a grueling 2024 campaign, consistently competing with top programs but often falling just short in tight contests. For Markey, those near misses have laid the foundation for a breakthrough year.
"Last year showed we can compete with anyone in the country," Markey said. "We were right there in every game. Now, it's about finding that last one percent—turning ties into wins and proving we're ready to dominate."
Despite graduating impact players
Grace Guidry,
Saga Jontoft, and
Kira Adkins, Lynn returns a strong core led by all-conference defender Savannah Larson. Junior
Brisa Sastre is expected to anchor the back line, with Markey challenging her to establish herself as one of the league's premier center backs.
"Kayleigh is someone you need to keep an eye on," Markey said. "She's had a phenomenal spring and hasn't missed a beat. She can score goals and will be key for us."
Between the posts, Lynn features one of the deepest goalkeeper units in the SSC. Junior
Brooke Auth headlines the group after a stellar 2024 season in which she logged 16 appearances, six shutouts, 1,447 minutes, 54 saves, and a 74% save percentage.
"Brooke is a beast in the net," Markey said. "She was one of our most dominant players last season."
Markey also reloaded with Division I transfers who are already making waves.
Michaela Virgin and
Julia Hellenkamp (Loyola Maryland) bring technical quality and experience to the midfield. Hellenkamp, a natural holding midfielder, has already embraced a leadership role.
Up front, senior center forward Ariana Kinsley adds a physical, aerial threat to the attack.
"Don't try to beat her in the air," Markey said. "She gives us a different dimension."
Markey has set ambitious but clear goals for the Knights this fall: tighten up defensively, finish chances in attack, and convert draws into wins.
"Last year, we tied seven games," he said. "This year, we're going after wins. Success means finishing top four in the SSC, making the NCAA Tournament, and being fearless every time we step on the field."
Lynn will get an early measuring stick on Sept. 17 against perennial power Flagler.
"They're always such a good benchmark," Markey said. "If we can get results in games like that, it shows we belong in the national tournament conversation."
The Fighting Knights officially kick off their season at Bobby Campbell Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 4, hosting Texas A&M International at 3:30 p.m.
