The American striker reflects on finding her rhythm in Toronto, building chemistry with her teammates and chasing silverware as the playoffs approach.

For Lena Silano, finding her stride at AFC Toronto has been a process built on patience, hard work and growing connections on and off the pitch. Now, following a standout month of performances, the American striker has been named the Northern Super League’s Player of the Month.

Since joining AFC Toronto mid-season, Silano has focused on settling into the team, building relationships and trusting the work that goes on behind the scenes. With the support of her teammates and coaching staff, that approach is beginning to translate into consistent performances in front of goal.

“I think the staff and the players have been really patient with me just getting into the flow of things and meshing with the team mid-season,” said Silano. “Marko (Milanović) has just told me to take care of the details and also be myself.”

That message has helped her maintain the consistency that has defined her approach throughout her career, while allowing her to find her place within the team.

“I don't think I've changed too much and I've always kept a steady work ethic, but I'm really happy that I've been able to get on the score sheet and get into some flow with the team,” she said. “It's happening at a good time with playoffs approaching.”

Building chemistry, finding consistency
While Silano’s recent performances have brought her into the spotlight, she sees her progress as the result of relationships developing over time rather than one defining moment.

In particular, building chemistry along the front line with Kaylee Hunter and Lauren Rowe has been an important part of her adjustment. Her longstanding relationship with teammate Zoe Hasenauer has also helped her feel comfortable as she continues to settle in.

“To the look of it, it looks like it's like, oh, that just instantly clicked,” Silano said. “But I think it's been clicking for a while and it's just having more consistent moments.”

That growing understanding has helped her contribute to the team in different ways, with her impact extending beyond the scoresheet.

While goals are an important part of her role as a striker, Silano takes pride in the other qualities she brings to the pitch, including her link-up play, ability to connect with teammates and pressing. She credits head coach Marko for reinforcing the value of those contributions and encouraging her to recognize the different ways she can influence a match.

That perspective reflects a team-first approach, one that has helped Silano find confidence in her role while continuing to develop her attacking game.

Finding her place in Toronto
Silano’s transition to AFC Toronto was supported by a relationship with the organization that had developed over several years. She credits Billy Wilson and Marko Milanović for maintaining consistent communication as the club took shape, even as her career took her in different directions.

“I think Billy and Marko have been very consistent with me since the team was developing,” she said. “I'm happy that they've stuck with me and been consistent and just keeping tabs on me these last couple years.”

That consistency, alongside the professionalism of the organization and the people around her, helped make AFC Toronto the right fit.

On the pitch, she has enjoyed the freedom and fluidity of the team’s style of play, as well as the shared passion of those around her. Off the pitch, she has embraced the opportunity to experience a new city and connect with its community.

“The community and the fans have been really cool to experience and being part of the Canadian culture is also really fun to experience and see because everyone's really passionate,” she said.

When she is not training or competing, Silano has been making the most of her time in Toronto alongside her teammates. From exploring downtown and trying new coffee shops to painting pumpkins together, she has enjoyed discovering what the city has to offer.

Her explorations have taken her to Trinity Bellwoods, Ossington, Yorkville, St. Lawrence Market and the Toronto Islands, among other local destinations. It is a chance to experience life beyond football while building friendships that carry into the team environment.

Focused on what comes next
With the playoffs approaching, Silano is focused on maintaining the habits that have helped her find her rhythm rather than putting additional pressure on herself.

“For me it's like don't fix what's not broken and keep doing what I'm doing and not adding extra pressure,” she said.

Her ambitions, however, are anything but modest. Silano wants to help AFC Toronto finish the season with silverware, and she is determined to contribute however she can, both on and off the pitch.

“I want us to win it all,” she said. “Winning it all, bringing home championship and the Shield.”

On an individual level, her focus is on continued growth, confidence and enjoying the game. For Silano, that enjoyment is an essential part of performing at her best.

“I feel like I play my best when I'm having fun and enjoying it,” she said.

As AFC Toronto heads into the final stretch of the season, Silano’s Player of the Month recognition marks an important milestone in her time with the club. But for the striker, it is also a reflection of the steady work, growing connections and collective ambition that have helped her find her place in Toronto.

With her confidence building and the biggest matches of the season ahead, she is ready to keep pushing alongside her teammates in pursuit of the ultimate goal.