Before losing as the No. 2 seed to visiting No. 3 Horace Greeley 2-0 in last year’s Section 1 Class B semifinals, Lakeland had won every Class B sectional title game played since 2009.
The Hornets, 12-4-2 in 2025, look to reclaim that title this season.
“Our goal is to continue to improve and be a top team in Section 1,” said Lakeland coach Sharon Sarsen, who has won 13 state titles and 24 sectional crowns. “We strive to win the league and Class B sectionals.”
For only the second time in Sarsen’s 45 years of coaching Lakeland she has named five captains in Gianna Santini, Riley Waters, Meaghan Heyde, Aditi Parambath and Olivia O'Connor.
“They have proved their work and value,” Sarsen said.
Santini (senior, defense/midfield, All-League, All-Section, All-State, NFHCA All-Region in 2025) is someone the Hornets are hoping will continue to compete, show her skill set, and demonstrate her passion of the game.
Waters (senior, midfield, All-League, All-Section) always play hard and competes to do her best.
“She continually makes plays and never takes a play off,” Sarsen said.
Heyde (junior, midfield/defense, All-League, All-Section, All-State), is exceptional in 1v1 play, both offensively and defensively, which helps Lakeland win the ball in the middle of the field. She also has exceptional field sense as a central player.
Parambath’s (junior, midfield/defense, All-League, All-Section) skill set allows her to help out on any line of the field. She is the Hornets’ most consistent and best passer.
Gabby Goldstein (junior/forward, All-League, All-Section Honorable Mention) brings determination in front of the net.
“We hope she will continue to be a great finisher for us,” Sarsen said. “She is strong and quick.”
O'Connor (senior) will see more playing time with the graduation of Jenna Yazzetti.
“We hope that Olivia will continue her strong play in goal that she has demonstrated for the past year,” Sarsen said. “She is a great shot blocker and strong decision maker in the goal.”
Lakeland opens at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 2, at Putnam Valley.
The Huskers, coming off a 13-5 season and a Section 1 Class B quarterfinal appearance, where they lost 2-1 at John Jay-Cross River, are led by senior All-State midfielder Lily Diaz.
“We expect Lily to continue being a strong leader and impact player for us on both ends of the field,” said seventh-year Yorktown coach Courtney Hyndman. “Her skill, field hockey IQ, and competitiveness will be important to our success, and we look forward to seeing her elevate her game while also bringing out the best in her teammates.”
Junior All-Section forward Ava Ryan looks to continue being a dynamic presence on offense. Her speed, skill, and ability to create scoring opportunities will be key to the Huskers’ success.
Claire Sullivan (junior, defense, All-Section HM) will anchor the defensive unit with her composure, toughness, and strong field awareness. Her ability to shut down opposing attacks and lead from the backfield will be a major part of Yorktown’s success.
Megan Durante (senior, midfield, All-Section HM) is anticipated to be a key presence at midfield with her work ethic, versatility, and ability to impact both sides of the field.
“We look forward to seeing her take on a bigger role and help set the pace for our team this season,” Hyndman said.
Izzy Wilson (senior, midfield, All-League) is a strong leader and steady presence at midfield.
“As a captain, her communication, work ethic, and ability to lead by example will be instrumental in setting the tone for our team this season,” Hyndman said.
Senior Alana D’Andraia, Diaz, and Durante are also captains.
“Ultimately, our goal is to compete for a league/section title, make a strong postseason run, and create a team culture built on accountability, resilience, and sisterhood,” Hyndman said.
Yorktown starts against visiting Pleasantville at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 2.
“We will start the season off on the right foot by focusing on building strong team chemistry, establishing our expectations, and setting the tone for the year from day one,” Hyndman said. “Our early practices will emphasize fundamentals, conditioning, communication, and developing trust both on and off the field.”
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