Scout’s View: Class of 2029 Standouts from the ECNL Girls RL Southeast Playoffs

The 2026 ECNL Girls Regional League Playoffs recently took place in the Southeast Region, featuring teams in the U13-U18/19 age groups.

While the U18/19 division crowned their Regional Champion, with Charlotte Soccer Academy winning it all on the girls side, the U13-U17 squads battled it out to see who would qualify for the ECNL Regional League Finals, which will showcase top regional finishers from all over the country.

Longtime scout Jerry Penkala ([email protected]), owner and operator of JTF Academy, was on hand for the tournament, and compiled a list of some of the top players that he watched from the Class of 2029.

See below for Penkala’s top performers.

Lila Kelley | Defender
Alabama FC 2010 (AL)

Playing up with the Alabama FC 2010 team, Lila was one of the standout 2011 defenders at the entire event. With excellent size and presence, she organized her entire back line, excelled in 1v1 situations, and dominated the middle of the field. She consistently cleaned up for her outside backs and played with a maturity and composure well beyond her age.

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Carlisle Bonnett | Goalkeeper
Florida Kraze Krush 2010 (FL)

Playing up on a 2010 team, Carlisle was one of the top keepers at the tournament and showed she could easily compete at the ECNL level. She was confident, communicated exceptionally well, commanded her entire 18-yard box, and displayed strong overall fundamentals.

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Rhylie Vincent | Forward / Midfielder
Charlotte SA White 2011 (NC)

Rhylie looked every bit the part of a dangerous attacking player. Whether playing forward or midfield, she had a knack for receiving the ball 25+ yards from goal and getting into prime scoring positions inside the box. Fast, strong, intelligent, and a natural goal scorer — a rare combination.

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Martha Raines | Defender
South Carolina Surf 2011 (SC)

Martha was the defensive anchor for a very talented SC Surf side. Tough, well-positioned, and excellent in 1v1 duels, she shut down the middle of the field, provided timely support on the flanks, and showed outstanding soccer IQ by keeping her outside backs organized.

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Tara Schmied | Forward
Florida Premier 2011 (FL)

This athletic and extremely fast forward was a constant threat for FLA Premier. She caused problems for opposing back lines whenever she got near the 18, could hold up play and link with teammates, and drove at defenders to create space. Creative with an outstanding work rate.

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Sloane DeFelice | Midfielder / Forward
South Carolina Surf 2011 (SC)

One of the most complete midfielders of the weekend. Technically gifted, high soccer IQ, creative on the ball, and composed under pressure. Sloane rarely gave the ball away and showed excellent comfort and control in all areas of the pitch.

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Piper Lumsden | Midfielder
Charlotte SA Blue 2011 (NC)

Piper was a central figure for CSA Blue, with much of the team’s play flowing through her. She showed excellent work rate on both sides of the ball, smart off-ball movement, and was feisty and effective defensively while remaining comfortable in possession.

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Avery Owings | Defender / Midfielder
GSA 2011 (GA)

Coming off the bench, Avery was arguably the best defender on her team. Quietly confident, very physical, and highly competitive, she won every 1v1 duel she faced. Tough, patient, and disciplined — she completely shut down her side of the field.

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Ava Parral | Winger / Forward
Charlotte SA White 2011 (NC)

Ava was the most dangerous offensive player on the pitch in the game observed. Equally potent with her left and right foot, she delivered pinpoint crosses and struck powerful shots. Fast, strong, relentless in effort, and excellent at stretching defenses from the flank.

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Lydia Derbes | Winger
Florida Premier 2011 (FL)

Lydia brought tremendous grit and work rate as an outside midfielder. She showed good ball control, consistently won the end line, and delivered dangerous crosses. Her toughness and competitive edge stood out all game.

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Natalie Davis | Defender
Union 10 FC 2011 (AL)

A highly talented and physical defender who looked capable of playing at the ECNL level. Athletic, intimidating, quick-footed, and balanced in tight spaces. She thrived in 1v1 battles and displayed the mentality and skill set of a natural defender.