By Ken Hamwey

Staff Sports Writer

Dani Lomuscio has all the attributes a soccer player needs to be considered an elite competitor.

During her first three varsity seasons, the King Philip senior played as a midfielder but she’ll be utilizing her skills as a striker this fall. A Hockomock League all-star as a junior, she’ll be a captain this season and coach Gary Pichel knows she’s more than capable of handling her new role as a striker.

“Dani has played every position, except goalie,’’ Pichel noted. “She’s a complete player. A student of the game, she’s a great dribbler, has excellent field vision, is instinctive, has a high soccer IQ and is very athletic.’’

The switch to full-time striker is a strategic move Pichel is making because Heidi Lawrence, last year’s all-star striker, has graduated and will be competing for Bentley University next month. Lawrence was the league’s MVP last year and her 32 goals set a KP record for most in a season. She also had 14 assists for 46 total points.

Playing midfield, Lomuscio also compiled some impressive statistics. She scored 14 goals and had 19 assists for 33 points.

Pichel, who’s guided the KP girls squad for 12 years, is acutely aware that Lomuscio will be targeted by opposing coaches this season but he’s comfortable with the move because “Dani is a team-first player who strives to improve in all facets of the game.’’

The 17-year-old Lomuscio, who has committed verbally to play for Stonehill College, is ready, willing and able to face the challenges of playing a new position.

“I’m open to whatever our team needs,’’ she said. “Striker is more of an offensive role and I hope to make a big impact there. I’ll focus on improving my speed and quickness and I’ll work to develop more accuracy on my shot. I think the transition will be smooth.’’

The 5-foot-3 Lomuscio, who’s a native of West Roxbury, started playing soccer at age five in the Wrentham Youth League and has played nine years at the club level.

“I really enjoyed playing the midfield because it involved offense and defense, it was about attacking or defending and it offered opportunities to score or to assist,’’ she said. “But, adapting to a new position is a challenge I welcome.’’

Lomuscio is a confident competitor who isn’t afraid to set lofty goals — for the team and for herself.

“We want to have a winning season and continue to practice intensely for a deep run in the state tourney,’’ she emphasized. “We also want to win the Kelly-Rex Division title and we want to improve daily. As for myself, I want to be a strong leader and a strong competitor. In my role as a captain, I’ll strive to lead by example and by being communicative and supportive.’’

Lomuscio says she’s sure her objectives will be achieved because “I’m confident my teammates will maintain a strong work ethic.’’

KP will open its season at Mansfield on Sept. 5.

Lomuscio’s most memorable games were losses to Acton-Boxboro and Bishop Feehan and a tie against Hingham. “I admired the way our team battled in tourney games against Acton-Boxboro and Bishop Feehan and I liked the way we played against highly-ranked Hingham,’’ she offered. “We learned from those games and we improved.’’

Lomuscio’s top thrills are being chosen a league all-star last year and a captain this season. “My teammates played a role in my all-star selection and I’m grateful to our coaches for choosing me as a captain,’’ she noted.  “Both honors are humbling.’’

KP, which so often finishes near the top of the league standings, relies on many girls contributing to its success. Lomuscio rates the Warriors’ three other captains as top-notch leaders. They include seniors Rhianna Mason (defender), Mikayla Thompson (striker), and Addisyn Lamothe-Vaughn (defender).

“They’re all great leaders on and off the field,’’ Lomuscio said. “Rhianna is strong on defense and is a great communicator. Mikayla is energetic and a phenomenal scorer, and Addisyn works hard, knows the game and communicates well.’’

Lomuscio also admires the way Pichel handles his coaching chores. “He’s so supportive,’’ she noted. “He’s confident, believes in his players and is a fantastic motivator.’’

Calling her parents (Megan and Mike) role models for their support and encouragement, Lomuscio relies on an athletic philosophy that includes winning, reaching one’s potential and having fun. “The key is to work hard, don’t give up and achieve your goals,’’ she said. “And, strive to be the best you can be.’’

Valuable life lessons can be learned in sports and Lomuscio has a list. “Overcoming adversity and being resilient are two key lessons,’’ she offered. “Sports also teach how to become strong leaders, to be good teammates and not to take no for an answer.’’

Lomuscio, who’s a National Honor Society student, will play at Stonehill and major in health sciences. “I look forward to getting a good education and to have the opportunity to play at the college level,’’ she said. “It’s a good fit and a good location.’’

Pichel admires the way Lomuscio dribbles the ball and says that ability is a strong asset. “Dani (short for Danielle) dribbles so well with either foot,’’ he said. “She could dribble well even if she was in a phone booth.’’

Lomuscio says dribbling comes easy “because I’m comfortable with the ball.’’

Aug. 19 will be the start of pre-season camp for KP, and Lomuscio has remained active all summer to be fully prepared. “I trained on my own, played in two summer leagues and attended a camp,’’ she said. “I also participated in captains’ practices and played in the Bay State Games.’’

Lomuscio, who also competes in outdoor track (800-meter run and the mile), has lots of passion for soccer. “I love every aspect of its competitive nature,’’ she offered. “Running, dribbling, passing and scoring. It’s fun when you have great teammates.’’

Dani Lomuscio is an elite competitor who just happens to be a dynamic team-first player. Her move to striker should be flawless because of her desire, dedication and devotion to that task.