Soccer Captains Setting the Tone

Milani Lockhart

The Mount’s 2026 captains for the men’s and women’s soccer teams were recently announced. Lillian Young (C 27’), Peyton Meara (C 27’) and Erin Antone (C 27’) represent the women, while Abou Cherif (C’28) was named the sole captain of the men with others to be determined. All together, these leaders set the tone for the programs, striving for higher standards, stronger team culture and a deeper connection with one another as the fall season unfolds.   

Young, Meara and Antone bring a vision centered on mindset and identity. Young emphasizes that the captains and coaches have worked intentionally to create a healthy, competitive environment wherein believing in one another drives performance. 

“With the whole team buying into our standards, we’ve been improving and learning from these challenges instead,” she said, noting the team’s performance against Richmond as a momentum-builder heading into conference play.   

Young, who used to consider herself a leader through example, has grown into a vocal and supportive presence on the field, bench and in the locker room. After battling injuries, she now blends her work ethic with encouragement and accountability. All three women’s captains share a commitment to creating strong chemistry and a family-like bond that fuels their competitiveness.   

“Being a captain this year means a lot to me,” Antone said, describing the role rooted in trust and consistency. She leads through effort and approachability, while remembering to ensure that all her teammates feel supported. Antone hopes this year’s captains will leave behind a culture defined by connection, pride and accountability.   

From challenge groups to varied pairings at practice, the women’s team prioritizes communication and unity. Antone notes that all players are encouraged to speak up, hold each other accountable and contribute to the team’s identity.   

On the men’s side, Cherif brings a similar focus to the team, prioritizing consistency and culture. “Being a captain means someone my teammates can count on every day,” Cherif comments. 

He aims to lead by example by emphasizing discipline, accountability and through the high standards he holds for himself as a player. His goal is to leave behind an environment where leadership is not defined by volume, but by service and doing the right things consistently.   

Together, these captains represent the core meaning of Mount St. Mary’s soccer–competitive, connected and committed to raising the standards for the two teams and the university.