Girls Varsity Soccer Claims First Sectional Title in Historic Season

The Frankfort-Schuyler girls varsity soccer team delivered a breakthrough season this past fall, finishing 18-3-1 and capturing the first sectional championship in program history with a decisive victory over Hamilton. The team advanced all the way to the regional final, just one win shy of the state semifinals.

Entering the postseason as the No. 6 seed, the Maroon Knights embraced an underdog mindset and rallied around a simple message that became their rallying cry during sectional play: “Why not us?” With each win, that belief grew stronger and ultimately carried the team to its first title and deepest postseason run in Frankfort-Schuyler history. The championship run capped a season defined by balance, depth and steady leadership on both ends of the field.

The team’s success was reflected in postseason honors throughout Central State Conference play. Eight players earned CSC All-Star recognition. First Team selections included Leigh Ferguson, Maryna Harrod, Sanita Selimovic and AnnMarie Goodson. Second Team honors went to Giavanna Kaleta, Madelyne Reid, Vega Rosemyer and Ella Drennen.

Individual recognition extended well beyond league play. Sanita Selimovic was named WUTR Athlete of the Week, while Giavanna Kaleta and Ella Kaleta earned the honor from WKTV. Leigh Ferguson and Ella Kaleta were also recognized as CNY Sports Athletes of the Week. At the postseason level, Ferguson earned All-Section honors. Regionally, Maryna Harrod and Selimovic were named to the Syracuse.com All-CNY Team, with Harrod also earning New York State All-State Fourth Team honors.

Team leadership was anchored by captains Giavanna Kaleta, Leigh Ferguson and Maryna Harrod, who helped set the tone throughout the regular season and postseason.

The program was led by varsity head coach Robert Harrod and assistant coach Henry Bick, with JV coach Gianna DeSarro and modified coach Gillian Keeler helping develop the depth and confidence that fueled the team’s postseason run.

For a team determined to make school history, the season ended with proof that sometimes the right question can change everything.