SOCCER

NORTHFIELD, Vt. - The 2007 Norwich women's soccer team is ready to take the next step toward winning the GNAC and claiming the program's first conference tournament championship since 1993. The Cadets are coming off a 7-7-3 season that could have been even better, as four or five of the team's losses could have gone the other way. 

The expansion of the GNAC brings a powerhouse into the mix in St. Joseph's (Maine).  The Monks won the NCAA Division III Independent Championship last season, defeating common opponent Green Mountain College in the championship match. The additions of Lasell College, Suffolk, Daniel Webster and Mount Ida strengthens the league as well. 

"We've stumbled out of the gate my first two seasons here at Norwich," says third-year head coach Tyler Renaud. "It is imperative that  we have a good showing right off the bat against Clarkson and St. Lawrence in the Lotto Classic (held at Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY Labor Day Weekend). A positive start to the season would help build confidence heading into GNAC play." 

Renaud has some concerns about the youth of his squad, as he welcomes 16 newcomers to the team this fall. In addition to the fresh faces, Renaud also returns 14 letterwinners to his club.

Renaud will rely on senior captain Katie Magnus to have lead the Cadets on and off the field. Team captains Leanne Waterman, Lauren Pacelli and Meghan Hoskins will be the stronghold in the midfield. Nikki Crum is poised for a breakout season, as well.  

All of the freshmen will be expected to step right in and have an immediate impact, with special attention to the three new goalies, Nicki Hunsicker, Alecia Wright and Morgan Smith. They will compete each day with Tracey Breault to determine the starting goalie, game to game. 

"I expect big things from all of my players and am excited to have speed up front with the addition of Nikki Szczepanski and Karissa Doyon," adds Renaud. "I think we will get excellent ball skill from freshman Kelly Bush in the midfield area, and two stellar defensive players in freshmen Megan Gingras and Caitlin Wohlschlegal.

"Freshmen Sarah Reuschel, Sarah Voss, Stephanie Dorain and Briana Brown have the capabilities of playing anywhere on the field, which is welcomed as there are always injuries to combat.

"With such a large roster, the most important thing for the ladies is to accept their roles on the team. It is the responsibility of our captains to help create positive team chemistry."