JFK Enters 2026 Girls Soccer Season With Cohesive Core, New Roles

Overview

• Assistant coach Lori Eanniello said JFK is optimistic with a smaller, cohesive team and six seniors who can lead younger teammates.
• Danielle "Dani" Odojewski is the captain, while Odojewski and Grace Kregg are expected to provide consistent defense.
• Natalee Masterman returns after a five-goal, one-assist season in 2025 and is expected to help organize the midfield.
• Gemma Jagodzinski is expected to serve as the main goalie, with two other players rotating into the position.

JFK Girls Soccer Pre-Season Preview

John F. Kennedy High School enters the 2026 girls soccer season with Eric Fiorello listed as head coach and Lori Eanniello listed as assistant coach. Eanniello said this is their second year coaching varsity soccer in the Cheektowaga-Sloan School District.

Eanniello described the outlook as optimistic, with JFK replacing graduated starters but working with a smaller group that is beginning to come together.

"Our six Seniors are solid leaders on the team and have a lot to offer to their younger teammates," Eanniello said.

Danielle Odojewski, referred to by Eanniello as Dani Odojewski, is one of the central names in that group. Eanniello identified Odojewski as the team's captain and described her as "a positive leader and communicator." She also said Odojewski and Grace Kregg offer consistent defense.

Natalee Masterman is expected to help organize the midfield and control how JFK plays. Masterman had five goals and one assist in 2025, while Dakota Even added one goal and one assist. Karyssa Lane, who scored twice in 2025, was named by Eanniello as a returning player who could take a significant step forward.

The goalkeeper position brings one of JFK's key new roles. Eanniello said Gemma Jagodzinski, an eighth grader, has been practicing and will serve as the main goalie, with two other players rotating into the position so players can also see the field.

Eanniello said JFK most likely will use a traditional counter-attacking style, using winger speed in midfield to move the ball forward, while noting that the team's exact identity will develop as players settle into new roles.

JFK opens the schedule against Buffalo Seminary on Sept. 8 and Franklinville on Sept. 11. The rest of September includes Tonawanda, Alden, Springville, Buffalo Seminary again, and Lackawanna. October brings Holland, Eden, Tonawanda, Lackawanna, Holland again, Springville, Alden, and Franklinville.