In an incredible achievement for our program, both the 2007 and 2010 Girls Academy teams have earned invitations to the highly prestigious Champions Cup Finals at IMG Academy. This elite event showcases the best teams from across the country, selected based on their outstanding performances in the playoffs, regular season, and Winter Showcase. For the first time, two teams from Our Girls Academy will compete at this level, and we couldn’t be more proud of their accomplishments.

 

This is a major milestone for both teams, and the excitement is palpable. The invitation to the Champions Cup Finals is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and resilience shown by these athletes over the years. It’s an opportunity to compete with and against some of the best teams in the Girls Academy league and showcase the talent that has been cultivated at Our Girls Academy.

 

For Megan Youngberg of the 07 Academy team, the invitation to the Champions Cup Finals is the culmination of years of hard work. “Every year we work towards making this tournament, so this is a huge accomplishment for our team,” said Megan. “Our hard work and dedication have paid off, and we are so proud to have earned this opportunity. I’m excited and motivated to compete against some of the best teams in the Girls Academy.”

 

Gwen Schulman also shares in the excitement of this momentous achievement. “It was so exciting for our team to be recognized and receive the invite for the Champions Cup event,” Gwen remarked. “It’s very special to have this final trip with our team before our college journeys. Can’t wait to get to IMG and play against top competition!”

 

For Madison AbiAoun, being selected for the Champions Cup is not just an honor, but also a moment to reflect on the journey. “Our team being selected for the GA Championship Cup was such an honor because it is a tremendous achievement,” Madison said. “For me personally, it is super rewarding to be part of the Championship Cup because it feels like the hard work we’ve put in at practice and on our own over the years has paid off. It’s a chance for us to challenge ourselves and play some amazing teams from across the country!”

 

Amarah Pessoa of the 2010 Academy team echoes her teammates’ sentiments about the honor of competing in the Champions Cup. “Being able to compete in the Champions Cup is a privilege that I am grateful for,” Amarah said. “I’m proud of my team for reaching that level of intensity and recognition. For me personally, I’m happy that my performance on this team has helped it gain recognition, and I’m proud to be a part of this achievement. It’s an honor to represent our club at the GA Champions Cup at IMG Academy and show the world what kind of players LISC produces. I’m excited to compete with some of the best players in the Girls Academy league!”

 

Cayla Bloom, another key player on the 2010 Academy team, reflects on the journey that led to this moment. “The Champions Cup Finals at IMG are the result of years of hard work and teamwork,” Cayla explained. “It’s a big honor to be part of this important moment for my team, showing how far we’ve come together. The excitement and pressure are high, and I want to do my best for myself and everyone who has supported us. This competition shows how dedicated and strong we’ve been as a team.”

 

Coach Steve Price, head coach of the 2007 Girls Academy team, expressed immense pride in the team’s accomplishments. “I am very proud of this team, and this is a culmination of years of dedication, attitude, and commitment,” said Coach Price. “The 2007 GA is a very talented group, and all will play in college. This will be an opportunity for them to test themselves and each other against some of the best teams and individual players in the country. The players and parents are a really tight group, and it will also be a fitting way to finish the long journey together.”

 

Pam Lumpe, our Girls Director, has seen the growth and development of these young athletes firsthand. “Having been with LISC now for five years, it is incredible to see the growth and development of these young ladies to be able to compete at the top of the girls’ soccer pyramid!” Pam said. “I have been fortunate enough to coach many of the players on the 07 Academy team and have been inspired by their dedication and commitment to LISC and their team. I am so happy they get to showcase their talents at the Champions Cup.”

 

Pam also praised the 2010 Academy team for their growth, commitment, and outstanding individual performances. “The 2010 Academy team has fully bought into the LISC way,” she shared. “They’ve been a dedicated team, with players being chosen for YNT Talent ID centers and GA talent ID selections. They’ve been extremely dedicated and passionate about achieving success, and this is a fantastic opportunity for them to prove they belong among the best teams in the country.”

As the team’s head to Florida to compete, Pam is excited to experience this journey with both teams. “I am super excited to be able to enjoy this journey with both teams in Florida this week!”

 

With two teams representing Our Girls Academy at the Champions Cup Finals at IMG, the future of the program is brighter than ever. This milestone is not just a celebration of success, but a reminder of the values instilled in our players: dedication, hard work, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence. As they take on the best teams in the country, we stand behind them every step of the way.

Let’s come together to support our 2007 and 2010 Academy teams as they compete at the highest level in girls’ soccer. Go, LISC!