The Little Miami Lady Panthers are making serious postseason noise—and turning heads in the process. Last night, the Panthers delivered a commanding 2-0 victory over the Ursuline Academy Lions in the OHSAA Division II district semifinal. It was a statement performance from a surging program that has found its rhythm under the guidance of second-year head coach Dann Marketos.
Just two seasons ago, Little Miami struggled through a 3-13-3 campaign. Last fall, the tide began to turn with an 8-7-3 finish. Now, sitting at 10-4-4, the Lady Panthers are not just improving—they're thriving.
Marketos, a former club coach with multiple state-level tournament wins to his name, has instilled a championship-minded culture in Morrow, Ohio. He emphasizes creativity, communication, and tactical discipline—elements that were on full display in Tuesday night's shutout win. The team's growth under his leadership hasn't gone unnoticed.
Adding to the celebratory tone, Coach Marketos was officially named the Eastern Cincinnati Conference (ECC) Girls Soccer Coach of the Year. In just two seasons, he has amassed an 18-11-7 (.629) record in one of the state's most competitive leagues—a testament to both his coaching acumen and the program's upward trajectory.
The victory over Ursuline wasn't just a win—it marked a turning point. A sign that the Lady Panthers, once considered a rebuilding project, are now postseason contenders.
Next up: Little Miami travels to Mason High School on Thursday night to face No. 5-ranked Mount Notre Dame in the OHSAA Division II District Final. Little Miami last faced Mount Notre Dame in Round 2 of the OHSAA postseason in 2023, and the Lady Cougars prevailed 2-0. This year, a win would propel the Panthers into the regional semifinals, where they'd face a familiar foe—either ECC rival Anderson (with whom they drew 0-0 on Sept. 30) or GWOC opponent Miamisburg (whom they defeated 3-0 on Oct. 15).
From longshot to legitimate threat, the Little Miami Lady Panthers are proving that belief, preparation, and leadership can change everything. And they're not finished yet.
Additionally, last weekend a record nine Lady Panthers were honored by the ECC with postseason recognition for their efforts this season! Leading the way was junior defender Ella Cook who was both a first-team honoree, while also being tabbed The League's Defensive Player of the Year! Joining Ella as a first-team members were Elly Goins, Cassie Kicsak, and Emily Bayles. Second-team honorees included Sydney Fallat, Morgan Reynolds, Alyssa Sparks, and Kiara Wood. Emma Gausmann was also named honorable mention.
