Senger directing Mt. Lebanon girls’ soccer

Cara Senger has big plans for the Mt. Lebanon girls’ soccer program as well as its players. Her objectives go beyond restoring the prowess that has resulted in one state title and eight district championships.
“Mt. Lebanon has a strong tradition both academically and athletically,” said Senger, who enters her first season as Lebo’s head coach. “I would like to continue that tradition and challenge each of my players on and off the field to become confident and successful young women.”
Since winning their last WPIAL title in 2008, the Lebo ladies have experienced little success. In fact, they sported a 5-10-3 in 2014 and did not qualify for the playoffs.
But, thanks to Senger, pride is coming back to the program. Senger played high school soccer at Oakland Catholic and collegiately at the University of Pittsburgh. She spent seven seasons as an assistant coach at highly-successful Peters Township before helping last year at Upper St. Clair. In addition to her assistant coaching duties, Senger coached the USC junior varsity.
Two games into the 2015 season, she has already seen progress. During the South Hills Classic Tournament, the Blue Devils battled to 1-1 ties with Mercyhurst Prep and South Park, both perennial PIAA contenders. Lebo hosts West Allegheny (Sept. 9) and Erie McDowell (Sept. 12) before opening Section 5-AAA action at home against Allderdice at 7:45 p.m. Sept. 14 and at Bethel Park at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 16. Baldwin and Upper St. Clair follow on Sept. 21 and 23.
“Every game we play will be a challenge,” Senger said, “and we look forward to the season ahead.”
As a new coach, Senger started the season fresh. She said that all of the players have come in with a “clean slate” and she looked to all of the girls to “step up and provide leadership” on and off the field.
“The coaching staff is working with each player on the team to get to know one another and to instill in the team that every time they step on the field there is an opportunity to grow.”
Senger expected her seniors to provide the direction. Leah Graf is an anchor on defense. Laura Pryor and Grace Leibow provide the fire power up front. Veronica West, Sam Hoinville and Lizzie Henniger strengthen the midfield.
“We will continue to look for our seniors to be strong leaders and to set a positive example for the younger players,” Senger said.
The junior class features: forwards Ema Cusick and Reilly Holzworth; midfielder Blair Proteau; Courtney Byrne and Kate Schaefer, who can play either up front or in the back; as well as goalkeeper Molly Merrick and Sarah DelFrate, a defensive midfielder.
Younger still are sophomores: Olivia Wagner, a goalie; Jess Wilhelm, a midfielder; Sierra Christian and Eliza Marzina, both defensive midfielders.
Lebo will carry three freshmen, all defenders, on the varsity roster. They are: Ariana Caminos, Jane Chaves and Julia LaLama.
In order to achieve their expectations for 2015, pride and unity will play pivotal roles for Lebo, says Senger. “The team will have to look to bring passion every time they step onto the field, be proud of the fact that they are playing for Mt. Lebanon, and be united as a team so that they want to win for each other,” she said.