Lake Mary Girls Soccer: Back‑to‑Back 7A State Champions

The Lake Mary High School girls soccer program has officially cemented its place among Florida’s elite, capturing its second straight Class 7A State Championship in a heart‑stopping penalty kick victory over Cypress Bay. The Rams battled through 100 intense minutes of scoreless regulation and overtime before claiming the title 4–3 in PKs, securing a repeat that will be remembered for years to come.
⭐ A Match for the Ages
From the opening whistle, Lake Mary dominated possession and tempo, keeping Cypress Bay pinned deep and creating multiple dangerous chances. Despite their offensive pressure—near‑miss combinations, a golden look from Siena Sigurdsson, and creative teamwork between Teagan Jahns, Ava McKay, and Natalie Rowen—the Rams simply couldn’t break through in regular time.
The championship ultimately came down to nerve, precision, and heart.
The Shootout That Sealed History
Freshman goalkeeper Lily Ellis emerged as the night’s breakout hero. With staggering composure for a ninth‑grader, Ellis blocked multiple penalty kicks, giving Lake Mary the opening they needed. She described the moment as “everything I ever dreamed of as a kid.”
Junior Kailey Susi, who had practiced penalty kicks endlessly, stepped to the spot and buried the decisive shot—delivering Lake Mary’s championship and completing the dream repeat. She admitted it was the most nervous moment of her life, but the preparation paid off.
Head Coach Christian Eissele called it a “crazy PK shootout” and praised his team’s mental toughness under immense pressure.
🔁 Back‑to‑Back Champions—And Better Than Ever
Despite fielding a younger roster after graduating top scorers and veteran leaders last season, the 2026 Rams somehow improved. They closed out the year with an astounding 20–2–1 record, surpassing last year’s win total and elevating their two‑season mark to 49–5–3.
ClickOrlando further highlighted the team’s resilience, noting the emotional weight of defending their title and the unwavering leadership that carried the group through the postseason.
🚀 A Program Built on Strength, Culture & Consistency
Coach Eissele’s leadership and the culture built over years were pivotal. Senior, junior, and underclassman athletes alike rose to the challenge—goal scorers, defenders, and role players all contributing to a seamless fusion of talent and determination.
The Rams didn’t just win—they dominated:
- 5–0 semifinal victory over Jupiter showcased their firepower.
- A year of teamwork, unselfish play, and rigorous training brought them back to the title stage.
- Their championship victory at Spec Martin Stadium in DeLand brought roaring crowds and unforgettable moments captured in statewide sports photography.
👑 A Championship Etched in School History
From Ellis’s phenomenal saves…
to Susi’s unstoppable final kick…
to the sideline leadership of Eissele…
to the roar of fans who filled the stadium—
Lake Mary Girls Soccer has carved another chapter in its storied legacy.
They are not just champions.
They are repeat champions.
They are a dynasty in the making.
Congratulations to the Lake Mary Rams — 2026 Class 7A State Champions!
Sources:
Yahoo Sports
Click Orlando
My Sanford Herald
