Rachel Eberly is finished with her schooling for now, but her evolution as a person continues. The Lancaster Inferno provides her with an opportunity for continued self-exploration through soccer, a game she has always played.

"I have evolved tremendously as both a player and a person through soccer," said Eberly. "I credit much of my confidence and my maturity to Lancaster Inferno. From starting with the club at 17 years old to now entering my fifth season, I have changed immensely over the years. Soccer has taught me how important it is to show up fully in everything you do. Your effort impacts everyone around you, including those watching. The game has also taught me valuable lessons about connection and networking. There are so many people who can become steppingstones in your career and life, and many of them are right beside you."

Eberly, a 2022 product of Cocalico High School, recently graduated from George Mason University, which is located in Fairfax, Va. She completed a successful Division One college experience in the fall of 2025.

Eberly plays the same position, center midfield, for the Lancaster Inferno as she did for the Patriots during her college days.

"I would say my role with my college team was similar to my role with Lancaster Inferno," said Eberly. "In any environment, I always approach the game with the same mentality. I try to lead with respect and be the best teammate I can be. This is demonstrated through my hard work, perseverance, competitiveness and team-first mentality. With both teams, I have always given my all, and I continue to do so with Inferno."

Headquartered in Lititz, the Lancaster Inferno is an age-level female soccer academy and program which promotes development, love of the game, skill advancements and learning and life opportunities for girls and young women. The Inferno's first team, which is made up of the program's older and most skilled players, competes in the Mid-Atlantic Division of the United States League, Women and plays its home matches at Penn Medicine Park, the home of the Lancaster Stormers.

The Lancaster Inferno's 2026 11-match season runs from early May to late June.

"My role on the team is demonstrated through leadership, as I serve as one of three team captains," said Eberly. "My job is to communicate with the other captains, as well as serve as a point of contact for my teammates if they have questions or concerns. Overall, I strive to set a good example for our team, supporters and the community."

Eberly was one of the Lancaster Inferno's 12 returning players for the 2026 campaign. The Inferno's roster also included 11 new competitors.

"The best thing about Lancaster Inferno is the team culture, as well as the support from our community," said Eberly, who first started playing the sport when she was 5. "I have made lifelong connections with teammates, coaches and even youth players because of this club. Our entire team has so much respect for one another, which makes competing together incredibly fun and meaningful. Our community also plays a huge role in our success and enjoyment as players."

For additional information, go to https://lancasterinferno.com.