As Lilyana “Lily” Joseph steps onto the field in Spain this week with the U.S. U-19 Women’s National Team, she carries with her a spirit of resilience, determination and the deep-rooted soccer culture of Connecticut. Her selection for the L’Albir U-19 Women’s International Tournament from February 15-27 is the latest milestone in a journey defined by relentless dedication, overcoming adversity and a passion for the game that has fueled her rise from local standout to national team selection.
As part of the tournament, Lily and the U.S. U-19 squad will face off against some of the world’s top youth teams. They first open competition against the Netherlands on Thursday, February 20th, at Estadio Rico Perez in Alicante, Spain. They then take on England at Estadio Antonio Solana on Sunday, February 23rd, before closing out the event against host nation Spain on Wednesday, February 26th, at Estadio Guillermo Amor.
Connecticut Roots and ODP Excellence
Lily’s love for soccer was nurtured in Connecticut, where she honed her skills with South Central Premier and Connecticut Rush Select. Her commitment and talent quickly set her apart, earning her a place in the Olympic Development Program (ODP) pipeline. She attended ODP National Training Camps in 2020, 2022 and 2024, and she was named to the ODP Regional Team in 2019, 2021 and 2024. She was also honored as the 2022 Connecticut ODP Female Player of the Year, a testament to her influence on the field and her growing reputation as one of the top young players in the state.
Overcoming Setbacks, Breaking Records
Lily’s pathway to success has not been without obstacles. During her sophomore year, she suffered a devastating ACL injury that could have derailed her momentum, but it instead became the catalyst for a remarkable comeback. In her first season back, Lily not only returned to form, she shattered records. She scored an astonishing 66 goals in just 19 games at Hamden Hall Country Day School, breaking a single-season scoring record that previously stood at 46. Over her final two seasons, she amassed 102 total goals and earned a collection of honors including All-State, All-FAA, All-NEPSAC and 2023 NEPSAC Player of the Year.
Beyond her dominance on the field, Lily was equally dedicated in the classroom, making the Honor Roll every semester and receiving the All-Around Student Award in 2022.
Making an Impact at Notre Dame
Her outstanding high school and club career paved the way for the next chapter, which was playing at the University of Notre Dame, one of the nation’s premier women’s soccer programs.
“I chose Notre Dame because of its competitive soccer program and its rigorous academics,” she said after selecting Notre Dame as her college destination. “Notre Dame harbors an environment that I can see myself growing spiritually, emotionally and physically.”
Lily wasted no time making her mark with the Fighting Irish. As a freshman midfielder/forward this past fall, she appeared in 22 matches, starting 12, and recorded eight goals, including a standout brace in the NCAA Tournament that helped Notre Dame reach the quarterfinals. Her breakout season earned her a spot on the ACC All-Freshman Team, reinforcing her status as a rising star in collegiate soccer.
“This is a well-deserved call up for Lily, she had a fantastic freshman season at Notre Dame,” said Josh Krusewski, Executive Director of the Connecticut Junior Soccer Association. “Her hard work, commitment and relentless drive has always set her apart from others. Connecticut is incredibly happy for Lily and can’t wait to see her represent at the highest level!”
Continuing a Soccer Legacy
Lily’s talent and passion for the game runs deep in her family. Her father, Roland Joseph, won two national championships at Southern Connecticut State University and played for the Trinidad & Tobago National Team, providing Lily with both inspiration and a blueprint for success.
A National Team Call-Up and a Bright Future
Lilyana Joseph’s journey has now taken her to the international stage, as she dons the red, white and blue for the U.S. U-19 Women’s National Team. Competing in Spain is an opportunity to showcase her skills on a global level, but it is also a moment of pride for the Connecticut soccer community that has supported her every step of the way.
Her story is one of perseverance, passion and an unyielding drive to succeed. From Connecticut ODP to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and now representing her country, Lilyana Joseph’s journey is still just beginning. As she takes the field in Spain, she does so not just as an elite athlete but also as a role model for young players dreaming of creating their own path to the highest levels of the game.
