With both the men’s and women’s soccer teams having poor seasons last year with no conference wins, (Men’s 2-16) (Women’s 1-16), both teams have been working hard to improve this year. 

Women’s soccer coach Rachel Gironda said, “We already have improved from last year, we are faster, more skilled and just better.”

The returning players and freshmen have put a lot of hard work into improving as a team this year.   The incoming freshmen have positive attitudes, are committed and contribute a lot to the team.

“We are relying on the freshmen to help us out. Due to losing starting seniors, the freshmen have big spots to fill.”

With the men’s soccer team having to overcome a big adjustment last season, becoming a part of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference, and 22 of the 26 members of the team being freshmen last season, team members knew that they had to work hard to improve this season.

As soon as the season was over last fall, everyone immediately went to the weight room to gain size and strength.

Both head coach Erin Kinsey and the players said they believe they are a lot better this year than they were last year, and all of their hard work through the winter and spring has improved them all around.

The team is looking to get a berth in the conference tournament this year. The team has the ability to be a good attacking team.

“If we can improve defensively over last year, we can do some good things in the league this fall,” Kinsey said.

Kinsey said the freshmen  would have an immediate impact on the team, and a few freshmen will start and see significant minutes.

“The biggest thing this group provides is depth in our squad,” Kinsey said.

Senior defensemen Steven Marsh said he hopes freshmen can contribute right away.

With the returning players seeing the incoming players and their talent upperclassmen can be replaced with new players.

“There are no guaranteed spots on this team,” Kinsey said.

“If we can stay healthy, I think we will have a very attractive product on the field this year and turn some heads in the conference,” Kinsey said.