Five Questions with Pelham’s Lexy Brodeur
Hi Lexy, so last year Pelham had one win the entire season. This year the team is 6-3-3 with a handful of games left. What’s the reason for the turnaround?
“The team had a lot of injuries last year. Our coach implemented an off-season program for us, and we have young players who got valuable time last year and are performing well.”
I know last year you were out with an injury. What was the injury and how long was the recovery?
“I had a slight tear in my tendon which unfortunately left me in a boot for several weeks of the season. I went through physical therapy and am now feeling better than ever.”
You are the team’s top goal scorer with 11 goals and 9 assists. Two years ago, Ashlyn Walsh, who is now playing at Fairfield University, broke the program’s record for scoring. Did you learn a thing or two from her?
“Ashlyn is a great player and friend, and she is someone I’ve looked up to. We have different playing styles, but playing alongside each other, I think complemented each other’s skill set.”
That same season, you played a big part in Pelham’s state championship. What was that like?
“It was an awesome feeling, especially being underdogs. It was the first time our girls’ program had ever been to or won a championship. It’s one of my favorite memories.”
You have committed to play the next four years at the University of New England. What went into that decision, and what do you plan on studying?
“Between the coaching staff, the team, and the campus, it just seems like an ideal fit. I’m going to study criminal justice to pursue a career in law enforcement.”
Throw-ins
Picking defenses apart: Whittier Tech senior Kamryn Eaton has nine goals and four assists for the Wildcats. Outside of soccer, she works at Amesbury Dental Associates, gaining experience as she pursues a career in dental hygiene.
“Kamryn is a role model for her peers,” said head coach Steve Szettella. “She represents the best of Whittier Tech—hardworking, compassionate, and dedicated to her future.”
A mini headline: Central Catholic head coach Jami Hayden said that junior defensive midfielder and team captain Addison Brosnihan, “may not always make the headlines, but her impact is impossible to miss.”
Brosnihan has been a consistent and dependable defender and leader for the three-time league champions. She also contributes offensively, including netting the game winning goal with four minutes left in Saturday’s 2-1 win over Newton North.
Put me in Coach: Before the season started, Windham lost its goalie for the season. Senior Harley Neal — who was previously a midfielder and whose older brother Preston is a goalie at Temple University — volunteered to go between the posts. All she’s done is make 74 saves, post five shutouts and is leading the charge of the Jaguars making it to the Division I playoffs.
Davis leading the way: Pelham has gone from a one-win season to 6-3-3 record. Goalie Hailey Davis is one of the biggest reasons for the success, making 123 saves. But the team’s work is not finished by a long shot.
Donahue continues to attack: Two years ago, as a freshman, Rylee Donahue scored the game winning goal to give Timberlane the NH Division I state title. Now as a junior, she has continued to be an offensive threat with three goals and five assists.
“Last week against Merrimack, she beat multiple defenders before scoring a goal which secured the 1-1 tie,” said head coach Sam Labate. “She continues to be one of our top players.”
In the middle of everything: Haverhill has jumped out to a strong 7-2-3 start, and one big reason is Sierra Jepson. “She’s been showing up offensively and defensively. If it’s an assist or a huge play, she’s involved and just working so hard. The stats don’t always show, but she’s a force on the field,” said head coach Krystyna Callagy.
Martis broke the streak: Through the team’s first nine games, Lawrence didn’t score a goal. That drought came to an end recently when senior Jordyn Martis scored the lone goal in a 5-1 loss to Whittier Tech and two in the 5-3 loss to Lowell. Martis has a goal of reaching seven by season’s end.
The fantastic ten: It’s been a tough season for Methuen in terms of wins, but character, team bonding and leadership has been the complete opposite. “It will be sad knowing that the end of the season is near and this group will be leaving us. However, we will still have many great memories that we have had together and that will last forever,” said head coach Roz Finocchiaro.
The ten seniors include captains: Kendall O’Hearn, Nour Anagam; MacKenzie Piantigini, Lily Harper, Julia Finocchiaro, Grace Ricupero, Sophia Oliveira, Valerie Abrego, Jadyne Finocchiaro and Taila Pedro.
Golden Warriors pushing ahead: Andover has had a strange season with a 3-2-5 record as the lack of scoring has resulted in the five ties. “We have been controlling possession and creating numerous chances during most of our games. The squad’s work ethic and relentless attitude have been undeniable,” said head coach Meghan Matson.
Reggies’ dynamic duo: Greater Lawrence (8-1-0/9-1-0) is sitting comfortably on top of the CAC Division 2 standings with a two-game lead over Lynn Tech. Jannaliss Herrera is the league’s top goalie with a 1.10 GAA and Carmela Bellittiis the league’s top scorer with 11 goals and 14 assists.