Momentum building toward playoffs for Sewickley Academy girls soccer

By: Ray Fisher
Sunday, October 5, 2025 | 11:01 AM

Gary Weber embraced a strong message for the Sewickley Academy girls soccer team in 2024 in his first year as head coach.

His coaching plan included aspects such as teamwork, pride and unity.

Sewickley tied for first in Section 3-A last season, advanced to the WPIAL playoffs for the fifth time in six years, reached the WPIAL and PIAA semifinals and ended up 13-5-1 overall.

“Last season, we set out with a clear goal: to establish Sewickley Academy’s tradition as a winning program, one that competes with purpose and pride every time we take the field,” said Weber, who has been coaching on the pitch for three decades. “Our commitment to consistent preparation ensures that we approach every opponent with focus and respect.

“Every player on our roster plays a vital role in our success. While some may receive more recognition, we firmly believe that no individual is above the team. Our strength lies in our unity, and it’s that collective effort that defines who we are as a team.”

Mission accomplished.

The Panthers improved to 10-1 overall and 8-0 in Section 3-A with a 7-1 win Sept. 29 against Serra Catholic as the Panthers registered their eighth consecutive victory.

Sewickley is ranked No. 1 in Class A in the Trib HSSN WPIAL girls weekly soccer rankings ahead of Springdale, Seton LaSalle, Bentworth and Riverview.

“The team has performed well and continues to grow stronger with each game,” Weber said. “We’re coming together as a cohesive unit, and the improvement from match to match is evident. With several regular-season games still ahead, there’s a clear opportunity to build on our momentum.

“We recognize there’s room for growth — both individually and collectively — as we stay focused on advancing to the WPIAL tournament. The goals we set at the start of the season remain unchanged: win our section and secure a spot in the WPIAL tournament. That vision continues to guide our preparation, performance and mindset every step of the way.”

The Panthers held a one-game lead over Seton LaSalle in the section race with the teams set to clash Oct. 1 at the Rebels’ home turf.

Sewickley outscored the opposition 58-11 through 11 contests and had allowed just four goals in its last eight games.

Junior forward Emma Eannarino and freshman midfielder Claire Karsman led the team offensively with 32 goals between them. The 5-foot-4 Karsman, one of nine freshmen in the girls soccer program, recorded a hat trick in the Panthers’ 4-0 win Sept. 25 against Winchester Thurston.

“Claire had a strong performance against WT, showcasing her ability to impact the game in the attacking third,” Weber said. “Her success is amplified by the support of her teammates, who create the space and opportunities for her to push forward — whether that’s contributing with goals or setting up assists.

“From the moment she joined the team, Claire brought a solid foundation of technical skill and tactical awareness. She integrates seamlessly with the group and consistently demonstrates what it means to be a great teammate.”

Karsman upped her scoring total to 17 with four goals against Serra Catholic and was complemented by Eannarino, who added a pair.

Another offensive presence for Sewickley this season has been midfielder Marin Edmunds, one of the three returning senior starters in 2025 along with forward Makenzie Dice and defender Bella Ballard.

“Marin has seven goals for us,” Weber said, “further strengthening our attacking presence.”

Other players back from the ‘24 playoff squad include Eannarino, junior midfielder Olivia Stefanik and junior defenders Grace Jardini, Emilia Carrabba and Josie Courtney.

Edmunds’ younger sister Gabby and Renee Phillip-Knight are sophomore goalkeepers.

The Panthers also have received solid contributions on defense from senior Raneem Wahdan and freshman Camilla D’Antonio, as well as freshman midfielders Sarah Merryman, Athena Ameredes and Jane Borstelmann on offense, to name a few.

Merryman has filled in for junior Mya Spadafore, who is out with an injury.

“The majority of our lineup has remained intact,” Weber said.

Tags: Sewickley Academy