Bonesville Radio

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Women Looking to Return
to C-USA Tourney
As the talent grows, so do expectations on the pitch

By Ron Cherubini
©2002 Bonesville.net

The element of surprise long left the East Carolina University women’s soccer team once it joined Conference-USA two years ago. And a sixth place finish in 2001 and a tournament berth won’t make the going any easier for the team as expectations rise for the Pirates.

Coming out of the Colonial Athletic Association, a league with soccer clout, the Pirates were never expected to dwell in the cellar of C-USA. But name recognition – or lackthereof – precluded the Pirates from being hailed as a conference contender. But wins in four of the team’s first five conference games last season got the attention of the league and that attention means that no team in the league will be unaware of the talent the Pirates possess.

It’s a double-edged sword of sorts, according to coach Rob Donnenwirth, who heads into his fourth year at the helm.

“I felt we were going to be able to compete (right away),” Donnenwirth said of his team’s move to the conference a couple of seasons ago. “We knew we were playing good teams already in the Colonial. The biggest adjustment was the travel and getting the girls to understand that we are going to play soccer games, not to travel for fun.

“The travel will be even harder on us this season. We have an absolutely crazy schedule. (In C-USA) you play 10 teams and don’t play the other three. You have travel partners, but two teams don’t have travel partners. This year that is us.”

The travel partner arrangement is to allow schools to offset expenditures. The season has games played primarily on Fridays and Sundays. Therefore, teams hit opponents on the road in pairs that are logistically located. That is, you may go from a game at Southern Miss on Friday to a game at UAB on Sunday rather than TCU followed by Marquette.

Being a non-partnered team has left ECU (picked to finish 7^th this season) with a pair of its toughest contests – Charlotte and Saint Louis – lined up for Friday-Sunday during the season. The one-day recovering time can put a hurting on a team and Donnenwirth is particularly aware of it this season.

Despite the talent in the CAA, Donnenwirth sees more potential in C-USA and is already seeing the benefits.

“The CAA was a very good soccer conference, both men’s and women’s,” he said. “You had William & Mary, James Madison, George Mason, Old Dominion, Richmond, you know, teams that make the (NCAA) tournament. (C-USA) is very strong at the top and very young at the bottom. I think that the teams at the bottom will catch up very quickly because the athleticism is very good (in the league). Cincinnati beat Notre Dame in NCAAs last year which right away put C-USA on the map. That is great for us.

“And, (C-USA) is helping us in recruiting because we are now talking to kids in Texas now and South Florida and Chicago who know who we are. We’re still primarily an east coast team, but we are getting national exposure now.”

For 2002, Donnenwirth sees the potential for an improvement on the 6^th-place finish of a year ago. But, he acknowledges that it won’t be easy.

“We are definitely a much deeper team now,” he said, referring to the talent that has come in over the past two seasons. “But there are plusses and minuses to that. We can make substitutions now without being too concerned about drop off in talent. The flipside of that is that it takes (nifty politics) to keep everyone happy, but that is why we are paid the big bucks, right?”

Atop of that talent pool stands senior forward Amanda Duffy. Duffy, who missed all of the 2000 season with a torn ACL, returned to the fold last year and announced her return emphatically. She set new single-season records for goals (14), points (32), and shots on goal. She recorded hat tricks (three goals) in multiple contests (Campbell and Louisville) and became only the second Pirate player ever to earn first-team, all-conference accolades. She was selected for the same honors (preseason) for this coming year.

“Obviously, Duffy had her coming out party last year,” Donnenwirth said of his co-captain. “She definitely opened up some eyes and everyone now knows who she is. Of course, they will all key in on her this season, so our goal was to bring (other playmakers) into the offense.”

The team lost a great scorer with the graduation of midfielder Kelly Gray. However, Donnenwirth can hardly contain his enthusiasm when he talks about freshman Megan McCallion. McCallion, from Long Island, NY, is a speedy, volatile scorer and will be expected to be a complimentary player for Duffy upfront.

“Megan brings speed and ability,” Donnenwirth said. “She looks really good right now and I think Amanda is very happy about that. Offensively, with Duffy and McCallion, I would guess that we should get a lot of goals. But our third and fourth scorer is usually the key for us. They are the girls who come up with that timely goal here and there.”

The team is hoping that third and fourth scorer will emerge sooner rather than later this season. Perhaps outside midfielder Krystel Pabey, who also competes in track, will surface as that player.

That punch will likely come out of a midfield led by Sarah Stoltz, an attack-minded sophomore.

Donnenwirth likes his defensive third of the field and in the ECU scheme, it is more of an attacking set of backs who support a transition game through the midfield.

“We play a 4-4-2,” he said. “It makes it easier to make adjustments. I like to make adjustments coming from the back forward not forward back.”

And the lineup’s strength echoes that.

“We’re strong in the back,” he said. “We’re returning all four of our backs.”

Junior co-captain Mindy Nixon, a flank defender on the left, returns. Nixon is a burner on the field, giving her the ability to make long runs on the attack and still recover defensively if the team is caught in a quick transition. Moreover, Nixon is a good ball handler and capable of being a setup player.

“We may possibly move (Kristin) Hoyle into midfield for much punch,” Donnenwirth said of his other outside back from last year. “Mindy Nixon has tremendous speed out of the back and she can be a threat. She will get forward like a winger. In the middle, our sweeper is Penny Perrott. She 5-11 and she obviously is very good in the air, which helps us.”

Perrott – a third-team all-C-USA selection – is used to coming forward for set plays off throw ins and corner kicks, as well as free kicks. Hoyle, a transfer from West Florida in 1999, is a tough defender who usually draws difficult marking assignments for the Pirates.

Senior Unicity Dittmer returns as the team’s stopper, which will be a very good thing for whichever freshman goaltending prospect gets the nod.

“In the net, we have three freshmen fighting for it,” Donnenwirth said. “We’ll be stronger in the goal, but it is too early to tell who it will be. Our stopper is a senior and will be (key) for the us.”

Overall Donnenwirth is happy with his team’s fitness, which has improved in each of the four years he has been at the helm. And the team is relatively healthy with just midfielder Rachelle Cabeceiras (stress fracture in foot) and forward Erika Glaubke (ACL) on the mend from injuries a year ago.

Donnenwirth says that his team is excited to see what they can do as an encore to last season’s first tournament bid. With the C-USA tournament in Charlotte this season, anything less than a return to the event would be a setback for this team.

“We are building some rivalries,” Donnenwirth said. “Obviously, Charlotte is a great story line (with former ECU coach Neil Roberts there) and Cincinnati is another (rival). We’ll be ready to play (each game). The girls realize that only eight teams get to the tournament and that every game was competitive last season. We talk about getting back (to the tournament) and anything short of that would be a big disappointment.”

To that end, Donnenwirth and his players make a covenant each season. This season, he said, it is to always focus on what the team wants collectively and to work toward that in practice, games, and even off the field.

“Chemistry is the key,” he said. “It’s a long season. Academics, travel, it all plays into it. How the girls adjust to these things is important.”

Looking at the schedule, Donnenwirth doesn’t see any real breaks.

“You look at Virginia Tech and South Carolina…they are two of the better teams on paper,” he said. “But High Point and Kent State are strong aw well. There are no games we look at and say, ‘that’s a W.’ Soccer is a funny game, you know. You may dominate a game and not win it. We want to play the best teams.”

In Conference USA, the Pirates are playing a great schedule and have clearly marked the second week of November on their calendars. They expect to be in Charlotte as seed in the tournament.

No. The conference teams now know all about ECU so there will be no surprises this season. Which is just fine with this team.
 

East Carolina Pirates:

Home Field:                   Bunting Field (500)

Coach:                          Rob Donnenwirth (Delaware, 1987)

Years at school:             4^th year

Career Record:              93-46-13

2001 Record:                 10-8-1; 6-4-1 (T-6^th place)

Letterwinners Ret:          17

                                 Starters Ret:                  11        

Overview: The Pirates inaugural C-USA season brought a mix of results. On the one hand, the team qualified for the conference tournament and right away served notice that ECU was competitive. On the other hand, the team was coming out of an arguably tougher soccer conference in the CAA and expected to do better than its tie for 6^th place finish. That said, the team is a solid bunch and clearly on the right path from a program perspective. In Forward Amanda Duffy, the team has a bonafide all-conference scorer and a few key additions should create opportunities when Duffy is double-marked. The midfield is solid as is the backline.

On the Attack:

Few teams in the league have a scorer as potent as senior Amanda Duffy. Duffy is on pace to break many of the ECU offensive records. Her 14 goals and 4 assists garnered her all-conference 1^st-team recognition. Surely she will draw heavy marks this season, so it is expected that others up front most find twine more often. Enter highly-touted freshman Meghan McCallion. McCallion is a highly-skilled forward with good wheels who will be expected to make teams pay for doubling up on Duffy. Sophomore Kim Davis and redshirt freshman Erika Glaubke are both expected to contribute heavily in the attack.
In Transition:

A trio of midfielders return to solidify the position with experience. Sophomores Sarah Stoltz (goal, assist),  Jennifer Leonard (goal, 4 assists), and Krystel Pabey (2 assists) form the backbone of a broader, more experienced group, able to run the field and contribute big into the attack.

In the Back:

The backline is perhaps the strongest, deepest group for the Pirates. Seniors Unicity Dittmer and Kristin Hoyle and juniors Penny Perrott and Mindy Nixon all return this season. Nixon (assist) and Perrott (goal, 3 assists) are very offensive-minded defenders who can run the field and Dittmer and Hoyle both are sure in the defense. Tena Rivera, a junior, and sophomore transfer Meghan Schwanke will add experienced depth to this unit.
Between the Pipes:

A trio of freshmen are battling it out for the vacated keeper slot. Dara Nielsen, Lauren Church and Michelle Kmiotek are vying for the position. All three possess great resumes and talent, but will certainly be the liability in the back until one can emerge and rapidly gain game experience.
Outlook:

Expectations are high within the program. The Pirates should be able to keep teams from pounding away at their freshmen goalie. The question on the attack is how will Duffy respond to the almost certain double-marks and will a third and fourth scoring option emerge? If this happens, the Pirates will be able to make another run to the tournament and perhaps get by the first round this time. The schedule has a few rough Friday-Sunday road trips, so that is something to watch for in 2002.

Roster:

Head Coach: Rob Donnenwirth
Assistant Coaches: Chris Webb

Alabama Birmingham Blazers:

Home Field:                   West Campus Field (2,500)

Coach:                          Paul Harbin (Mercer, 1983)

Years at school:             7^th year

Career Record:              93-82-10

2001 Record:                 11-9-0, 7-3-0 (T-4^th place)

Letterwinners Ret:          20

                          Starters Ret:                  9

                          Last vs. ECU:                 Did not play last season.

Overview:

UAB had a great 2001 campaign and certainly has the pieces in place to make a run at the title this season. If the squad can overcome big losses in the form of forward Denise Peters (9 goals, 4 assists) and stalwart defender Bridget Winston, both to graduation, then the Blazers will be fine. Between Adrienne Suffridge up front, Briana McCarty in the middle and Melissa Sherrell in the back, the team is strong up the middle and has good goalkeeping as well.

On the Attack:
Sophomore Tara Kidwell roams the front and sometimes the midfield and provides UAB with a proven scorer with the ability to get shots on frame. Her 4 goals and 5 assists are testament to her versatility up front. Likewise, senior Adrienne Suffridge (8 goals, 6 assists), is a sure shot on the attack. The 5-10 forward is good in the air and can strike from good range. She was a 3^rd team all-conference performer in 2001.

In Transition:

Briana McCarty and Jenny Rynders lead a solid core of midfielders into the 2002 slate for UAB. McCarty, an all-freshman selection last season, contributed 9 assists on the season and Rynders, a sophomore, added 5 tallies and a pair of assists. Liz Bosscher is a good distributor and junior Jessica Samulski (goal) also has plenty of game time in. Cindy Pennerada (2 assists) also returns to a strong midfield group.

In the Back:
Senior Melissa Sherrell anchors the defense for the Blazers. Selected to the USASA National Select team this year, Sherrell is a very talented defender. Along with Sherrell in the back is Stephanie Davis and Jill Between the Pipes:
Veteran keeper Lisa Nowoslawski returns to mind the net. She had a 1.13 goals against average and posted 103 saves for UAB.

Outlook:

Strong throughout its lineup, this year’s edition of UAB soccer will not disappoint fans. The Blazers, barring injuries, are good enough to play with any team in the nation and should make a strong run at the league championship and an NCAA berth.

Roster:

Head Coach: Paul Harbin

Assistant Coaches: Ashley Hart (UNC-Asheville, 1999); Dawn Battle (UAB, 2001)

Charlotte 49ers:

Home Field:                   TransAmerica Field

Coach:                          Neil Roberts (Delaware, 1987)

Years at school:             4^th year

Career Record:              64-68-10

2001 Record:                 9-7-4, 7-2-1 (3rd place)

Letterwinners Ret:          15

Starters Ret:                  10        

Last vs. ECU:                 Won at ECU, 2-1 on Nov. 2, 2001

Overview:

With 10 starters, six of which made the all-Conference USA squad, Charlotte appears – on paper – to be poised to make a run at the CUSA title in 2002. A quartet of seniors, all conference selections, lead the way in the talented lineup. Seniors Mikel Casey, Jenn Howell, Jennie Leeder, and Shannon Roberto make up Roberts’ first four-year class and the quartet looks to be dead-set on taking Charlotte further this season, further being into the C-USA finals. This class, particularly, is eyeing a final, given that they have reached the tournament semis every year since joining the team. This season, with the C-USA tournament in Charlotte, it could be the year for the 49ers.

On the Attack:
Firepower will not be a problem for Charlotte this season, with eight proven scorers returning. Led by senior Leeder (5 goals), this group of forwards will dictate the success or failure of the squad. Juniors Haley Devine, Lindsay Duncan and Jill Hayes provide plenty of options when attacking the twine. Sophomore Leslie Canales (3 goals) and Hayes (7 career goals) have the knack for making things happen in front of the net. All three freshmen strikers, Courtney Crandell (Gatorade player of the year for Iowa), Kelly Eckstein (ODP player in Georgia), and Lindsey Palmeiro (District player of they year in McClean, Va.) are considered blue chip soccer players and should contribute right away.

In Transition:

If there is a weak spot for the 49ers, it would be in the midfield. A trio of talented, but not too tested, sophomores will be called upon to step up and step up quickly to fill the void left by Dawn Geyer’s graduation. Jill Leeder (1 assist) brings the most experience, having seen action in 20 games, 14 of them as a starter. Megan Terlip (2 goals, 2 assists), who started 17 games, and Kim Miles (2 goals, 2 assists) will also come in with some on-field experience. Freshman Erica Devine – one of three sisters on the roster – comes in highly touted and should get plenty of minutes.

In the Back:
Between Casey (3 goals, 5 assists), Roberto (57 starts) and junior Kim Moore (33 starts), the 49ers are loaded in defensive talent. The trio, all three all-conference, have plenty of experience. Junior Tiffany Ross will see action and five highly-touted freshmen will vie for playing time.

Between the Pipes:
Three-year starter Howell, the Niners’ career saves and shutouts leader, is one of the league’s top goaltenders. She has 234 career saves and has posted 14 shutouts in her career. Her 0.93 goals against average was best in the league last year. Backup junior Andrea Kollmorgen has playing experience is a solid reserve.

Outlook:

There is no reason to believe that Charlotte will not be in the mix for the league championship this season. It all depends on how rapidly a talented, but green, midfield can get up to speed. Up front and in the back, the 49ers should be able to match up against anyone in the league. A tough non-league schedule with Duke, Florida State, USC, and Miami could take a toll on the club if things don’t fall the right way, but this is a deep and talented Charlotte squad. Look for the team to at least equal last season’s success.

Roster:

Head Coach: Neil Roberts
Assistant Coaches: Maureen McDonough (Maryland, '98); Ben Pinkerton (Virginia Tech, '01)

Cincinnati Bearcats:

Home Field:                   Meyers Field (500)

Surface:                                    Field Turf

Coach:                          Meridy Glenn (Brown, 1980)

Years at school:             20^th year

Career Record:              213-123-24

2001 Record:                 20-4-0, 10-0-0 (C-USA Champions)

Letterwinners Ret:          21

Starters Ret:                  7

               Last vs. ECU:                 Won at home, 1-0 on Oct. 28, 2001

Overview:

The Bearcats come off their best season in school history and an unblemished record  in the conference. The club returns seven starters from that squad and will likely need no more motivation than to take a look at the preseason poll with Marquette sitting atop the standings, despite last season’s dominating performance and a No. 15 finish in the final national polls. Although All-American forward Ann Thomas and outstanding goalie Christy Hoffman is gone, veteran coach Meridy Glenn has plenty to work with.

On the Attack:
While Thomas was a scoring machine, this year’s edition of the Bearcats will rely on a more balanced attack coming from all over the field. Senior Tianna Oliver (10 career goals) and sophomore Maria Strelka (7 points in 2001). Amy Simonson, whom many speculated would not return after an August graduation, is back and now and all healed up from the ankle injury that hampered her all last year. As the team’s top returning scorer, a healthy Simonson should have no problem finding twine.

In Transition:

The strength of the 2002 Bearcats figures to lie in the midfield where three of last season’s four starters are back. Sophomore Lisa Stephens (3^rd team all-CUSA) and junior Amy Mink (coming off a stress fracture) will patrol the central part of the field.

The flanks are covered by juniors Rachel Lieberman (9 points) and Tasha Wagner (3 goals, 6 assists) who headline a deep contingent in the midfield.

In the Back:
The Bearcats defenders are arguably one of the best groups in country as three of four 2001 starters return, led by senior Heather Herwah (10 points), who manages the back. The group surrendered only 14 goals all of last season and recording 15 shoutouts on the season. Junior Kristina Wilson (4 points) will assist Herweh in the central defense and Stacey Kyser (2 assists), a senior, returns to the backline.

Between the Pipes:
It won’t be easy to replace the departed goalie Christy Hoffman, statistically the top goalie in school history, but there are three players vying for the position. Sophomore Tracy Hale has the most minutes in of the three, but she is being battled by junior Marche Gendrew, who is recovered from a knee injury a year ago. Freshman Sherry Slye is also in the mix.

Outlook:

Though insulted by being picked to finish second in C-USA by the league coaches, the Bearcats will nonetheless be a favorite to compete for the league title. It will largely be contingent upon the team seeing a pure scorer emerge from what is, going into the season, a bevy of talented, but unproven potential scorers. Look for the Bearcats to make another strong run at the title.

Roster:

Head Coach: Meridy Glenn
Assistant Coaches: Becki Poeppelmeier (Wilmington College, '98); Kate Berz (Chattanooga, '92)

DePaul Blue Demons:

Home Field:                   Wish Field

Coach:                          John Wilson (Western Washington, 1993)

Years at school:             3^rd year

Career Record:              9-26-1

2001 Record:                 6-12-1, 0-9-1 (14^th place)

Letterwinners Ret:          n/a

Starters Ret:                  n/a

                            Last vs. ECU:                 Lost at home, 0-2 on Oct. 12, 2001

Overview:

Looking back on 2001, DePaul really had little to look enviably upon other than a program best 5-0 start to the season. However, the team failed to keep it rolling and ended up a dismal 14^th in the league. However, the youth that was on the field for the disappointment of last year, are now an experienced group looking to make those adjustments that will turn the one goal games their way. DePaul lost four contests by one goal, including an 0-1 decision to champion Cincinnati. DePaul has an opportunity to make itself a contender for the tournament, but the program may still be a year or two from making a serious run at the league.

On the Attack:

The Blue Demons do return their top three scorers from a year ago in senior forward Christy Young, the program leader in assists and is just four tallies away from setting the school record for goals. Senior Ogonnaya Dotson-Newman (4 goals, 2 assists) moves up from the midfield into a more active role in the attack.

In Transition:

Junior Colleen Ahearn (3 goals, 2 assists) provides serious scoring punch out of the midfield, giving the team a more distributed attack. Shana Mills and Katie Merz also return to give depth in the midfield and the incoming freshmen will be expected to step in right away and contribute.

In the Back:
Defensively, sophomore Erin Davren and juniors Cassie Ozark and Amber Prindle form a solid core of backline defenders for DePaul. Much of the depth will come from a bevy of freshmen and sophomores with potential.

Between the Pipes:
Junior goalie Erica Keppel comes off an injury that kept the promising player out the entire year last year. She is now back to see if she can fulfill the potential she displayed as a freshman.

Outlook:

If the team can turnaround the one-goal games, they may be able to push up into the middle of the conference pack, which would be a good step for the program. The team is clearly headed in the right direction as SoccerBuzz magazine rated this year’s recruiting class as the nation’s No. 11 class. Those freshmen will be looked upon to contribute right away and if they are as good as advertised, the Blue Demons may surprise a few teams this season.

Roster:

Louisville Cardinals:

Home Field:                   Cardinal Park (2,500)

Coach:                          Karen Ferguson (Connecticut, 1993)

Years at school:             3^rd year

Career Record:              5-31-1

2001 Record:                 4-13-0, 2-8-0  (12^th place)

Letterwinners Ret:          15

                         Starters Ret:                  8

                         Last vs. ECU:                 Lost at ECU, 1-5 on Oct. 26, 2001

Overview:

Louisville has 15 returning letter winners and eight starters, including talented midfielder Melissa Wark and productive goalkeeper Meredith Miller. However, throughout the lineup, the talent level is not yet on par with the upper class of the conference. The Cardinals are hoping that they will have just enough talent up front to improve on last season’s two league wins. However, in the back, a host of freshmen will have to deliver instantly if Louisville hopes to push into the middle of the C-USA pack.

On the Attack:

The Cardinals are hoping that a pair of sophomores can improve on promising freshmen campaigns and find the twine consistently in 2002. Mandy Rost, who missed the first three matches of last season due to injury, but started the remaining 14, was the team’s third leading scorer, tallying three goals on just 12 shots. Rachel Gold, who tied Rost on the team in scoring and goals, saw action in 14 games, primarily playing from the bench.

In Transition:

The strength of the team is clearly in the midfield and primarily in the form of Melissa Wark. Wark, a senior, led the team in goals with five. Another returning starter, Jenny Starr, will be counted on to be more of a playmaker in 2002. Another playmaker, Leighann Carroll, returns. Carroll was second on the team in assists and seventh in scoring in her freshman season. All freshman selection Gina Lower is back and will be expected to be a leader in the midfield. Lisa Martin, who started all 17 games last year, missing just six minutes of the season as a true freshman, tying for fifth on the team in scoring.

In the Back:

Sophomore Heather Orahood, who played in 15 matches while starting 14 during her initial college campaign last season, returns to lead a youth movement in the back. The team is counting on a healthy Amelia Buhts to be as good as expected coming out of high school two years ago. The remaining slots will have to be filled by a host of freshmen competing for playing time.

Between the Pipes:

Sophomore Meredith Miller, who played every minute of every match between the pipes as a true freshman, established the lowest goals against average in seven years at Louisville last season. Miller made 107 saves, the sixth-highest total in school history, and even added an assist on a game-winner. Her backup will be a freshman in Angie Gangel.

Outlook:

It will be a very difficult task for Louisville to improve much on its two-win league total from a year ago. The team has some isolated talent, but in a league that is top heavy in talent, the Cardinals will be fortunate just to move into the middle tier of teams. A conference tournament berth is a longshot.

Roster:

Head Coach: Karen Ferguson
Assistant Coaches: Carole Dutchka (Penn State, 1998); Tim Nowak (Western Illinois, 1996)

Marquette Golden Eagles:

Home Field:                   Valley Fields (1,750)

Coach:                          Markus Roeders (UNC-Asheville, 1990)

Years at school:             7^th year

Career Record:              97-29-10

2001 Record:                 16-6-0, 8-2-0 (2^nd place)

Letterwinners Ret:          20

Starters Ret:                  10

Last vs. ECU:                 Won at home, 2-0 on Oct. 14, 2001

Overview:

Although the Golden Eagles won neither the C-USA regular season or tournament titles in 2001, the club’s load of talent and consistent success has them as the clearcut favorites this season. It is a safe bet that coach Markus Roeders will collect his 100^th career victory and probably sooner rather than later. With one of the nation’s top scoring threats on the roster and a solid lineup from attack to the net, the Golden Eagles will not be an easy contest for any team in the league regardless of the venue.

On the Attack:

The biggest offensive threat in the league comes in the form of senior All-America honorable mention Kate Gordon (9 goals). Gordon, who was the C-USA Player-of-the-Year in 2001, is poised to lead the league again. Using blazing speed, Gordon can score from anywhere and she needs just 15 tallies to break Kelly Roethe’s school record. Also up front, two of the team’s best players off the bench last season, will start on the field this year. Seniors Erin Maysent and Ashley Spakowitz have both logged plenty of time with Maysent primarily being a set-up artist and Spankowitz (12 career goals) finding the twine. Two freshmen are expected to add to the attack right away. Jennifer Baker and Kristie Matola both were proven scorers in high school.

In Transition:

The Golden Eagles return five starters from an already solid group of midfielders. The central midfield spot is held by junior Kristen Jensen (7 assists), who was a first-team all-conference selection in each of her two seasons. Jensen is the clear field general on the pitch and is crucial to Marquette’s success this year. She can also serve as a defensive stopper, making her way toward the MU goal when times arise. Juniors Laura Culhane, Anne Ioder, Carolyn Klopp and Lindsay Smale will make the midfield solid for two years to come. Culhane (5 career goals) was an active shooter, with 35 attempts in 2001. Ioder is a talented all-around player. All three of her tallies in 2001 were match winners last season. Klopp directs her attention more to the defense and transition offense. As a freshman, she scored four times. Smale is a physical defensive player and was a third-team all-conference selection in 2001.

In the Back:

Senior Anne Dalecky, the conference Co-Defender-of-the-Year in 2001 and All-America Honorable Mention, returns at central defense. Last season, she led a defense that allowed just 15 goals in 22 matches. Senior Diana Detrie is solid on the flank. The return of Stephanie Welch (13 assists in 2000) is welcome news. She will roll into the defensive third after spending much of her career up front before an injury sidelined her last season. She is also a corner kick specialist. Playing just four time last year due to injury, Welch had 13 assists two seasons ago. Junior Katie Michuda and sophomore Jessica Ratcliffe round out the defense.

Between the Pipes:

Senior Ashleigh Koenig returns for her second season as the starter in the net. She made 83 saves last year, just seventh in the conference, but had the second best goals against average, 0.60. That mark was the 10th best in the nation. Freshman Katie Bissen had 70 minutes of action and made five saves in 2001.

Outlook:

Without a doubt, Marquette is the league favorite. It should come down to mistakes and how the midfield plays. As the talent around the league increases, Marquette is aware that some of the league teams can make you pay for a mistake. Likewise, the midfield is the only weak link in the lineup, but only by comparison to the attack and defense. Perhaps the biggest roadblock is the schedule with a road trip to NCAA power North Carolina and games against Wisconsin and Dayton, not to mention league stalwart Cincinnati. Marquette should be one of the teams in the finals at the C-USA tournament in Charlotte in 2002.

Roster:

Head Coach: Markus Roeders
Associate Head Coach: Frank Pelaez (UNC-Asheville, 1992)
Assistant Coach: Jim Welch (Marquette, 2001)

Memphis Tigers:

Home Field:                   Mike Rose Soccer Complex (3,000)

Coach:                          Brooks Monoghan (Memphis, 1994)

Years at school:             3^rd year

Career Record:              14-23-1

2001 Record:                 5-12-1, 3-7-0 (T-9^th place)

Letterwinners Ret:          14

                          Starters Ret:                  6

                          Last vs. ECU:                 Did not play in 2001.

Overview:

Memphis will look to improve on a 9^th place finish a year ago in the league. The team is slowly improving, but will require a stellar effort to break into the middle of the pack and a hunt for one of the eight tournament slots. Nevertheless, the competition in the lower tier of the conference is fierce and the Lady Tigers have some talent in Becca Amrozowicz and Alison Baker.

On the Attack:
The club will be expected a great deal of success from senior Becca Amrozowicz this season. Amrozowicz was a flank forward last season but is now in the primary striker role. Last season, she was third on the club in goals with 3 and also contributed 2 assists. Expect Kristi Marr, who played on the Scottish National Side, to be a fine scorer for the Tigers as well. Speedy Monica Powell should also factor into Memphis’ attack this year. In 2001, Powell primarily came off the bench to provide punch.

In Transition:

The midfield is definitely the domain of senior Alison Baker. Baker, a technically sound and aggressive playmaker, should contend for all-conference honors this season. She has 11 career goals and 7 assists and is not afraid to pull the trigger on a shot. Sophomore Carina Vilholdt, a hard-working midfielder, is a playmaker who also possesses solid marking ability. Susannah Wells is an intelligent who is technically clean and strong in transition. The team is excited about Annika Moller, a steady and dependable player. She was the team’s best marking back during freshman campaign and hast the ability to make offensive runs from defensive position.

In the Back:
Young but talented, the Memphis defense has some of the key ingredients necessary to survive in C-USA. Sophomore Angela Willoughby, the Intimidator, is the Lady Tigers’ defensive enforcer. She is returning from a knee injury that cost her the final four games of the 2001 season. Sophomore Mary Shelton (2 goals, assist) was one of Memphis’ most coveted recruits last season who contributed instantly to the defense a year ago. She possesses good offensive instinct and will look to create more scoring opportunities this year. Jocelyn Raine will likely play sweeper or flank defender and Amy Ciezki returns as one of the more experienced defenders. Speedy Veronica Ruiz is very versatile and should come off the bench for valuable defensive minutes.

Between the Pipes:

Junior Katrina Wicksell established both team and individual single-season records for goals against average (1.65) and personal-best five shutouts last season for the Lady Tigers. She was sixth among C-USA goalkeepers with career-best 84 saves, eighth with 4.42 save per game average. Backup Kari Rawe saw only limited action last season.

Outlook:

The Lady Tigers, like many of the lower echelon C-USA teams, has a long way to go to find its way to the upper level of play. However, with the right fortune this season, the team has enough talent to capitalize on any breaks that come its way. Still, it will be a tough task for Memphis to find its way to the tournament in Charlotte in 2002.

Roster:

Head Coach: Brooks Monaghan

Assistant Coaches: Jodi Fisher (Memphis, '99); Mike Thomas, (Fort Lewis, '97)

Saint Louis Billikens:

Home Field:                   Robert R. Hermann Stadium (6,050)
Coach:                          Tim Champion (Harris-Stowe, 1979)
Years at school:             7^th year
Career Record:              121-55-16
2001 Record:                 8-10-1, 5-4-1 (8^th place)
Letterwinners Ret/Lost:   n/a
Starters Ret:                  11
Last vs. ECU:                 Lost at ECU, 2-3 (2OT) on Oct. 21, 2001

Overview:

The Billikens are looking to make a move into the upper echelon of the conference and this season, with a load of seniors, it could happen. Nine seniors dominate the lineup, giving this team a real maturity. Add to the mix two key transfers in to the program and it is easy to see why the Billikens are feeling good about the season.

On the Attack:
Up front, sophomore Jamie Perry – last year’s C-USA Freshman of the Year – provides instant offense. Perry will be expected to improve on her already incredible freshman season and lead a young bunch of forwards.

In Transition:

Senior Jenny Kehl, first team all-conference, controls the middle and serves as the team’s leader on the field. The powerfully skilled, offensive-minded midfielder will team with sophomore transfer Kim Sinclair, who brings her talents from Murray State to the Billikens. Sinclair was an Ohio Valley all-conference team.

In the Back:
Sophomore Kara Kornfeld, a transfer from Indiana, brings 15 starts in the Big Ten with her to the Saint Louis defense. Juniors Liz Jones and Carrie Carlson and sophomores Erin Stay, Ellen Gerweck, and Tressa Pecher round out the defense.

Between the Pipes:
Senior Meghann Burke, a third team all-conference selection, returns in the net for the Billikens. Burke is a solid goalkeeper and should provide some backup for the defense as the group jells.

Outlook:

The Billikens are banking that they will look more like the 2000 team – which finished second in the league – than the 2001 edition. Youth has been served and now the Bills look to be in a critical stage. This year may be the year that they push their way back into contention.

Roster:

Head Coach: Tim Champion
Assistant Coaches: Janet Oberle; Jay Zaber

Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles:

Home Field:                   USM Track and Soccer Complex (1,500)
Coach:                          Matt Clark (Illinois State, 1984)
Years at school:             3rd year
Career Record:              112-82-8
2001 Record:                 9-7-0, 3-7-0 (T-9th place)
Letterwinners Ret:           15
Starters Ret:                    6
Last vs. ECU:                 Lost at ECU, 1-2 on Sept. 30, 2001

Overview:

One thing that coach Matt Clark is hoping will pay dividends is the shear number of players that the Eagles run off and onto the pitch. With a rotation of 15-16 players, the team is very heavy in the midfield and hopes that last year, though disappointing, was a step in the right direction. The returning experience is mostly in the midfield and upfront, but how good that experience is remains to be seen in a tough league.

On the Attack:
Up front, Southern Miss will look for junior attacker Tricia Wiles, a Conference USA All-Conference Second Teamer, to be the main finisher for the club. Wiles led the team in scoring with 25 points last season with a team-high 11 goals - including four game-winners. Leila McReynolds (5 goals, 3 assists) also returns to start and is a leader on the field. Brit Lindsay Canham (4 goals, 3 assists) is the most technically gifted of the forwards and has a knack for the getting shots on frame. The team is excited for the return of Lauren Prewitt who finished tied on the team in scoring with 4 goals and an assist, despite suffering season-ending knee injury midway through the campaign.

In Transition:

Junior Katie Adams, a team captain, anchors an attack-minded midfield. She is a tremendous goal-scorer, with 6 goals and 5 assists last season. Katie Randolph (3 assists) is good in the air and Samia McReynolds (2 assists) is also back. Two freshmen, Micah Stephens and Brown, should contribute off the bench. Stephens comes from a background of high-level national club play and Chelsey Brown brings good height in the midfield. Amanda Nadoloski, a prime player off the bench last season, should get her share of starts this season.

In the Back:
Junior Rachel Jewett, good defender with size, anchors the group. Pauline Hazan, a senior, is very physical and will likely move into the lineup after serving off the bench last season. Sophomore Kay Beth Costilow (goal) is team’s best defender and will return to manage the group in the back. Sophomore Emily Anne Chenoworth, a top marking back, will get plenty of action.

Between the Pipes:
Junior Leslie Schoeplein returns to start after a 2001 campaign where the 5-10 keeper recorded 60 saves and registered a 1.17 goals against average. Anna Snyder, a sophomore, had a 1.62 goals against average I limited play. She will back up Schoeplein again this season.

Outlook:

If the Golden Eagles can make a legitimate run at a conference tournament slot, it would be a big step for the program. However, in a league rich with talent up top, USM may be competing to become competitive in the lower ranks of the league. A young program must continue to grow and this season will likely be another one of those less-than-pleasant growing experiences.

Roster:

Head Coach: Matt Clark

Assistant Coaches: Gail Macklin; Stacey Hall (Southern Miss, 2001)

Texas Christian Horned Frogs:

Home Field:                   Garvey-Rosenthal Soccer Stadium (1,500)

Coach:                          Dave Rubinson (TCU, 1977)

Years at school:             17^th year

Career Record:              134-157-15

2001 Record:                 7-11-0, 3-7-0 (T-9^th place)

Letterwinners Ret:          n/a

                          Starters Ret:                  n/a

                          Last vs. ECU:                 Lost at ECU, 1-2 on Sept. 21, 2001

Overview:

The offseason was not a fun one for the Horned Frogs, having to dwell on a six-game losing streak to end the year. But hope burns eternal at TCU and the team is looking to rebound with the return of their top player, who was lost for the season last year due to an injury. Still, TCU will likely have to really improve to make the C-USA tournament field this season.

On the Attack:
Senior forward Sherry Dick (10 goals in 2000), who had to sit out last season with an injury, brings a much-needed emotional boost to the team that finished 10^th last season. A former all-CUSA selection (2000), Dick will have to lead an offense that was shut out six times a year ago. Fellow seniors Nicole Carman, who finished second on the club a year ago in scoring with 7 goals, will likely be the other most productive scorer on the field for TCU. Expectations are also high for sophomore Laura Greenberg, an all-conference performer as a freshman. Greenberg led TCU in scoring with 8 goals.  The team is also expecting junior forward Rebecca Repasky (3 career goals) to emerge as a consistent scoring threat.

In Transition:

Senior Lori Robbins (goal, assist) started all 18 games a year ago in the midfield and will be called upon to be a leader in the transition game.  Junior Jenny Swanson (3 goals, 5 assists) and sophomore Cara Toulouse (goal, 5 assists) are both playmakers in the midfield.

In the Back:
Seniors Brenda DeRosa (17 starts in 2001) and Alecia Grieshaber anchor the defense. Grieshaber has been hampered by injuries but does have starting experience. Junior Julie Vaughn saw limited action in 14 matches last year.

Between the Pipes:
The team must initiate a new goalie this season in either junior Ruth DeJong or tranfer Christina Bobb. DeJong saw no action last season while Bobb got time in at the University of Arizona.

Outlook:

With a young squad, the five seniors on the team will have to pack the club on their collective back, find a way to tally some goals, and show true leadership to make the eight team field at the C-USA tournament in 2001. The task will be made harder as TCU lacks much-needed depth throughout the lineup. Making matters worse are recent injuries to sophomore midfielder Bara Gunnarsdottir and junior defender Adrianne Jett, who collectively started in 20 games last season. It will serve as a true testament to this team’s resolve if they improve much over last season.

Roster:

Tulane Green Wave:

Home Field:                   Wesfeldt Facility (3,000)

Coach:                          Betsy Anderson (North Carolina State, 1995)

Years at school:             2^nd year

Career Record:              9-8-0

2001 Record:                 9-8-0, 7-3-0 (T-4^th place)

Letterwinners Ret:          14

Starters Ret:                  9

Last vs. ECU:                 Won at home, 2-0 on Sept. 28, 2001

Overview:

Tulane is a program looking to take the next step in Conference-USA. After a 4^th place finish, the Green Wave is poised to make a push into the top flight. With 9 starters returning, Tulane should have the talent to do it. Unfortunately, they will have to do it with a completely untested goalkeeper. Barring a disaster between the pipes, the Green Wave should be highly competitive.

On the Attack:
All of the offensive punch that the Green Wave had last season returns intact. Top scoring threat sophomore Lindsay Morris (7 goals, 2 assists) and fellow sophomore Brook Parker (6 goals, 3 assists) give the Green Wave two solid attackers up front. Additionally, junior Mandy Schumacher (5 goals, 4 assists),senior  Alycia Wanat (goal) and senior Colleen Lake (3 goals, 4 assists) will also be up front in the attack.

In Transition:

Tulane’s midfield is a very offensive-minded central set. Junior Asia Simons (2 goals, 4 assists) and set up experts senior Stephanie Donaldson and senior Emily McArthur (3 assists) provide a powerful attack out of the middle and also provide plenty of feeder activity up to the forwards. Sophomore Natalie Wright also adds experience.

In the Back:
Junior Jaclyn Benjamin heads up a solid defense for Tulane (goal, 5 assists). Benjamin is an offensive-minded back who is not afraid to make a run into the midfield. When she does, junior Jacque Gruber (goal) is a stalwart in the back for Tulane. Also, sophomore Kelley Smith (goal, 3 assists) will work into the group. The group was responsible for pitching 6 shutouts last season.

Between the Pipes:
Graduation has left Tulane with a dilemma in the goal – no experience. With only one goalkeeper on the roster in freshman Kristen Weegar, the Green Wave will need to me even more so active in the defensive third of the field.

Outlook:

If Tulane’s goalie works out, the Green Wave should again be a team with a chance in C-USA. The team is fairly young still, but with nine starters back, the youth movement can play with the more veteran teams in the league. With maturity should come the ability to snag a few road wins this year, an area where the team struggled last season winning only three games while posting a 6-1 mark at home.

Roster:

Head Coach: Betsy Anderson
Assistant Coaches: Kim Whisenant (N.C. State, 1996); Riki-Ann Serrins (Maryland, 2002)

Houston Cougars:

Home Field:                   John O. Quinn Field at Robertson Stadium

Coach:                          Bill Solberg (Marquette, 1997)

Years at school:             3^rd year

Career Record:              17-18-2

2001 Record:                 8-9-1, 6-4-1 (T-6^th place)

Letterwinners Ret:          9

Starters Ret:                  5

Last vs. ECU:                 Lost at ECU, 0-1 on Sept. 23, 2001

Overview:

A nationally-regarded, highly-skilled freshman class has the Cougars hoping for a fast turnaround from middle-of-the-pack status in 2001. After posting an 8-9-1 record last season, Houston believes that this year 42^nd-ranked incoming class will provide just the lift necessary to move up in the league hierarchy. The class includes Alison Sinclair who transferred in from Clemson where she contributed to a 19-3-1 Tigers’ team last season.

On the Attack:
Junior Nicole Aubuchon (2 goals, assist) returns up front along with sophomores Sherika Hardaway (goal) and Leslie Guevara. The team is excited about freshmen Kelly Golden and Kristin Bay. Bay is a tall forward who should give the team more opportunities in the air.

In Transition:

Senior Ashley Fortenberry (goal, 3 assists) and sophomore Nikki Hawkins (3 goals, assist) return to the lineup to form the nucleus of a solid midfield. Sophomore Veronica Saavedra, who came off the bench last season, is expected to pick up her game in 2002. Sophomore Megan Dalton and heralded freshmen Beth Outlaw, Julie Cole and Josie Chevis will all vie for PT.

In the Back:
Clemson transfer, sophomore Alison Sinclair is expected to bring top talent to the backline and will team with returning starters Anne Gasser (assist) and Emily Allwardt (assist). Talented freshmen, including Sarah Hemmer and Megan Moreo, will compete for immediate playing time and add depth.

Between the Pipes:
Freshmen goalies Erin Ferguson and Sarah Webster are vying for the starting role vacated by departed graduate Robin Cate. Ferguson, Webster or a combination of both must look to replace Cate’s 1.42 goals against average and more than 100 saves between the pipes.

Outlook:

Houston is counting on its highly-touted freshmen and transfer to transform the team quickly into a tournament contender. How fast these young players adapt will be the key to whether or not this team has a legitimate shot at a tournament title or whether they will be talking about talented sophomores next season.

Roster:

Head Coach: Bill Solberg
Assistant Coaches: Joe Kirt (Wisconsin-Oshkosh 1998); Dano Holcomb (UNC Asheville 1997)

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