Knights Host Lake in Season Opener as New Coach and New Look Roster Debut
Nordonia girls soccer kicks off its season tonight with a home matchup against Lake. The junior varsity game starts at 5 p.m., followed by varsity at 7 p.m.
Lake brings a notable name to the field in senior Kyla Brinton. She was ranked the No. 1 high school girls soccer player in Ohio for the 2026 preseason by the USA TODAY Network Ohio.
New Coach Takes Over Program
Ryan Sweeney of CAPS FC takes over as head coach this season. His hiring follows a few tough years for the program.
This season’s senior class has now played under four different head coaches since their freshman year. Nordonia graduates 12 seniors this year, leaving only 12 players behind for next season.
Injuries and Returning Leaders
The Knights will open the season without two key starters at full strength. Lilly Garey and Sabrina Nanne are both recovering from injuries heading into tonight’s game.
Senior keeper Mallory Larrick returns for her final season between the posts. Maggie Hanson also returns after being named to the ECNL Ohio Valley All Conference Second Team.
Hanson is expected to shift from center back to defensive mid this season. That move will help shape what is largely a new look on the back line for Nordonia.
Leading that new defense is returning captain Brynley Henn. She anchors a defensive unit that will feature several new faces this fall.
Captains and Coaching Staff
This season’s captains are Lilly Garey, Sabrina Nanne, Brynley Henn, Mallory Larrick and Maggie Hanson. The group brings a mix of experience and leadership to a roster in transition.
Sweeney is joined by a notable group of assistant coaches, including Brian Dossa, who previously coached this senior class in the youth program. Dossa is joined by his daughter, Erin.
Rounding out the staff is former Nordonia player Noelle Dubnicka. She returns to the program as an assistant coach.
FAQs
1. When does Nordonia girls soccer play its season opener?
Tonight, with junior varsity at 5 p.m. and varsity at 7 p.m.
2. Who is Nordonia playing in the season opener?
Lake, whose roster includes senior Kyla Brinton.
3. Who is Nordonia’s new head coach?
Ryan Sweeney of CAPS FC, marking the fourth head coach for this senior class since their freshman year.
4. How many seniors is Nordonia graduating this year?
12 seniors, leaving 12 players behind for next season.
5. Who are Nordonia’s team captains this season?
Lilly Garey, Sabrina Nanne, Brynley Henn, Mallory Larrick and Maggie Hanson.
