By Hillary Kane
Elm Staff Writer
The Shorewomen start the 2011 season with a strong veteran roster consisting of 15 returners, 7 of whom are seniors. With such an experienced core, WC Women’s Soccer is expected to have an action-packed season ahead.
Among the seven seniors are four captains including goalkeeper Tori Ripple, midfielder Gabby Devaud, midfielder/defender Jennifer Kiarsis, and midfield/defender Kelsey Newborn. Last year for the first time in team history, Ripple and Devaud were simultaneously named All-Centennial Conference honorable mentions, distinguishing them as notable key returners.
The Shorewomen’s first contest this past Saturday, was an all-out battle against the visiting Neumann University, resulting in a 1-0 non-conference loss. WC maintained a 6-4 advantage in shots during the second half, but was unsuccessful in matching Neumann’s early goal.
Despite the opening spoiler, the team’s spirits remain confident.
Senior Mallory Kahn-Johnston says, “This first game does not reflect our abilities, nor our positive outlook for the rest of the season. We have a strong group of returners along with a number of promising freshmen, so I am excited to see our full potential unravel.”
The Shorewomen have created the team motto, “Demand More”, and that is exactly what they intend on carrying out for the duration of the 2011 season. Their next match is an away game, Thursday, September 8th against Immaculata University.