She may have played a pivotal role in the Lion City Sailors Women’s Team’s successful 2024 Women’s Premier League (WPL) campaign, but Priscille Le Helloco’s humility shines through when she shares her aspirations for the upcoming season.

“Scoring a goal or two would be nice,” she said, with a modest smile.

For context, Priscille took only one game — her debut match for the Sailors — to achieve that milestone last season.

As Priscille looks ahead to her first full season with the club, she and her teammates will face a stern test right from the get-go, with the Sailors kicking off their WPL 2025 campaign in a blockbuster opener against title rivals Albirex Niigata (S) this Saturday (8 March) at Choa Chu Kang Stadium.

Yet, she embraces the pressure as an opportunity to showcase what the team is truly capable of.

“Albirex are a tough team, and it will be a challenge, but I have full confidence in our ability to perform — especially with how hard Coach Daniel Ong has been pushing us over the past few months. This game is a great opportunity to showcase our growth and prove the quality we’ve been building towards,” she shared.

Priscille made her club debut last August, quickly showcasing her sharp eye for goal and natural ability to connect with her teammates on the pitch.

Indeed, her partnership with fellow forward Raeka Ee is shaping up to be one of the most exciting strike duos of the upcoming season — a connection that ignited on the very night of Priscille’s debut. After all, it was Raeka who set up both of her goals in that match against Tanjong Pagar.

“Raeka and I have definitely grown closer since I first joined the Sailors, and that bond has made a huge difference both on and off the field. The stronger our connection off the pitch, the better our chemistry during games. It’s made playing together even more enjoyable and effective,” the French teenager said.

Looking back, Priscille pinpoints a defining moment in their friendship.

“I think the exact moment Raeka and I became close was when we celebrated my debut goal,” she recalled. “It was funny because just a few hours earlier, we were filming for the Champions In Blue music video, where we had to fake a goal celebration. So we went from pretending in front of the cameras to actually celebrating together on the pitch. And, of course, we bonded over our love for food.”

The Sailors began their pre-season preparations as early as late December last year, with the two forwards dedicating themselves to fine-tuning their already seamless chemistry.

“As attackers, we know expectations are high, and we’re always looking for ways to evolve and improve. Everything we do is geared towards creating more goal-scoring opportunities and ensuring we keep growing throughout the season,” shared Priscille.

“We’ve been working hard in training to sharpen our link-up play and deepen our understanding of each other’s movements. Whether through drills, tactical discussions, or simply spending time together off the pitch, we’re constantly learning how to complement each other’s strengths to be as dangerous as possible on the field.”

Away from the attacking front, the Sailors’ defence is also undergoing a transformation ahead of the new season. Qarissa Putri, a standout performer in the backline last year, has solidified her role as the backbone of the team’s defensive stronghold — just in time for their crucial clash against Albirex this Saturday.

To those around her, Qarissa’s rise has been fuelled by unwavering self-belief — a quality that has propelled her to the top of her game.

“Qarissa has really stepped up, and it’s been incredible to see her confidence grow. She’s becoming a key leader in the backline, showing composure under pressure and making smart decisions on the ball,” Priscille shared proudly of her teammate.

“She’s worked incredibly hard, and her growth is evident — not just in her defensive presence but also in her ability to organise and lead from the back.”

With several players stepping into bigger roles this season, and another couple of Sailors Girls Academy talents promoted to the senior team, Priscille credits the squad’s senior players and Coach Daniel for shaping them into the players they are today.

Beyond tactical guidance on the pitch, the young hopefuls receive mentorship off it — an essential element in fostering their love for the game.

“Their guidance, tactical insights, and genuine care for each of us not only help us improve as players but also shape us as individuals,” Priscille explained. “As younger players, we push each other to grow by constantly challenging and motivating one another. That shared drive and support system make a huge difference in our progress.

“I hope we continue to grow closer, strengthen our bonds, and become even more united in working towards our goals. If we keep pushing each other and stay committed, I truly believe we can achieve a lot this season.”