Soccer player selected to play on Ukraine Women’s National U-19 Football Team

A Baldwinsville Central School District Girls Soccer player has been selected to play on the Ukraine Women’s National U-19 Football Team.

Liana Mostrianska, 18, will represent her home country of Ukraine in the first round of Euro-2022 tournament from October 19 to 27, 2021 in the Netherlands. She will travel to Ukraine for a week to practice with the national team before the games begin.

“It’s really nice that I can represent Ukraine,” said Liana, a senior at C.W. Baker High School.

Liana said she was invited to play on the Under 19 national team based on her previous participation in Ukraine’s football (soccer) championship team when she was 15 years old.

“I’m really happy that they remembered me and are giving me this opportunity,” she said.

Liana moved from Ukraine to the United States 2½ years ago. Her father was a professional football (soccer) player in Ukraine and she’s been playing on teams since she was 11 years old. Liana came to Baker High School as a sophomore and was eager to join the girls soccer team. She said she loves being a Baldwinsville Bee.

“We have a lot of fun times as a team,” she said. “They have become a family to me. It’s nice to be on a team here.”

Bees coach Kathy Morse said she’s excited for Liana.

“What a wonderful opportunity for Liana,” Morse said. “She has been such a great asset to our team. We will be cheering her on from the states.”

In the Euro-2022 tournament, the Ukrainian team will face national teams from the Netherlands, Scotland and Austria.

“This is an incredible honor for Liana,” said Superintendent Jason D. Thomson. “Her countless hours of dedication, passion and hard work are paying off for her. We are very proud of Liana collectively as a community to have a Baldwinsville Bee representing us on the world stage. We support her and wish her the very best!”

Liana said playing in the tournament is an excellent opportunity for her to showcase her skills. After graduation she hopes to play soccer in Europe.
Director of Athletics Christopher Campolieta said he’s thrilled that Liana is able to participate in an event like this.

“She’s worked very hard both athletically and academically and is a quality student-athlete here in Baldwinsville,” Campolieta said. “We are very proud and wish her the best of luck!”