Lakewood is coming off of a breakout season under first-year coach Luis Turcios, who said he has higher expectations for his more experienced squad. The Lancers finished third and beat Long Beach Poly for the first time in over a decade.
“Last year we made a jump so I think it’s about keeping the momentum going,” Turcios said. “We have more potential this year because its the second year of them playing a style they weren’t familiar with. I can already see them being more comfortable. They’re adapting to what we want them to do.”
Senior captain Alex Simensma will be the biggest key for Lakewood on the right wing where she can create from end line to end line with her speed. She will be joined by fellow three-year varsity players Amber Sandoval and Daisy Alvarez. The junior captains will be leaders in the midfield, and important to executing Turcios’ possession-based style.
Senior goalkeeper Tattiana Bullock is back as well, and will need to gel quickly with freshman center back Victoria Aguilar. Freshman Lauren Aguilar is also going to be dangerous up top for the Lancers.
