The Lake Oconee Academy girls soccer team recently won the region title for the second year in a row.
The LOA girls secured the title with a 4-1 win on March 28 over Lincoln County, and they finished their region schedule with a 4-0 record.
“Winning the region title is a huge accomplishment, and the girls have worked so hard for it,” Lake Oconee Academy girls head coach Carina Baxley said. “There’s a real sense of excitement and momentum right now.”
Previously, Baxley mentioned she was seeking improvements from her players in finishing and maintaining composure in high-pressure situations, and she has observed that progress.
“That’s been one of our biggest areas of growth,” Baxley said. “That 4-1 win was a great example of players staying calm, communicating well, and capitalizing when it counted.”
Baxley took over for Kourtney Kelley this season, so she said winning the region in her first year as coach felt special.
“I stepped into this role with a lot of respect for the tradition and culture that had already been built here, so to be able to continue that success has been very rewarding,” she added.
Baxley previously coached middle school soccer at LOA, so she has worked with many of the girls on this team, which has been incredibly beneficial.
“At the end of the day, it’s all about the girls,” Baxley said. “Their commitment and energy have made this a seamless transition, and I’m just incredibly proud of how they’ve embraced the vision and pushed forward together.”
While the Lady Titans have secured a region title, they know a lot remains on the table for them. LOA has two games remaining against Prince Avenue Christian and Monroe Area, so finishing strong before the state tournament is key for this team right now.
Baxley said she knows the team has the talent and leadership, and her players have seen what they’re capable of.
“Now, it’s about continuing to play to our identity, staying sharp in training, and maintaining that high energy as we head into the final stretch,” Baxley said. “If we do that, I feel really confident about where this group can go.”
Securing the region title was one of the Lady Titans’ main goals this season, but getting back to the state championship remains at the top of their list. Baxley said she feels like her team is catching its stride at the right time, with the state tournament looming.
“We’re excited, we’re focused, and we’re ready for whatever the state tournament brings,” she said.