AUGUSTA — A local high school soccer star was honored in the State Senate for her achievements throughout her time as a soccer player for Camden Hills Regional High School. 

Senator Erin Herbig, D-Belfast, honored Lincolnville’s Kristina Kelly in the Senate Chamber on Tuesday, Jan. 28 for being named the National Player of the Year for high school girls by the United Soccer Coaches.

A senior at the Rockport school, Kelly is the first Mainer ever to receive the award.

In her remarks on the Senate floor, Sen. Herbig congratulated Kelly on behalf of the Maine Legislature and the State of Maine.

“Kristina sets an example for girls throughout Waldo County, the State of Maine and the country,” said Sen. Herbig. “With hard work, determination and perseverance, there is nothing you can’t do.”

Kelly’s coach, Meredith Messer, said that Kelly’s desire to get better separates her from others at her level.

“One of the thing that makes Kristina special is she has an incredible work ethic, and is still incredibly humble,” said Messer. “She loves to challenge herself and let that help her team. She’s always team first.”

Kelly led the Windjammers to three straight unbeaten seasons and four straight Class A state championships.

In 2019, she scored 49 goals for a career total of 159, the third most of any high school player in Maine.

Last winter, Kelly won a girls wrestling state championship on her first try in the 113 pound class.

Next fall, Kristina will attend Central Connecticut State University, where she intends to study biology and compete in Division I women’s soccer.

Reach the sports department at: sports@penbaypilot.com.