Young Team Has Sights Set on Reaching Conference Tournament
Two weeks into the soccer season and head coach Al Moroni is already feeling optimistic about this year's team. "This is by far one of the best teams we've had since I've been at STAC," said Moroni, who is entering his eighth season. The Lady Spartans have a balanced combination of experienced players and a talented freshmen class. With eight newcomers added to the roster of two seniors, six junior and two sophomores, the Spartans hope the team can gel and gain chemistry as the season progresses.
STAC's young lineup will have big shoes to fill with the loss of last years top scorer, Kim Griffith who scored 43 goals in her four year career and finished as STAC's all time* leader in goals(43), assists(13) and points(99). Freshmen Katherine Dapolito and Liz Gronwodlt will step into the striker positions early on. Both players possess very good speed and a great shot. Senior, tri-captain Carolina Bruschi and junior Kelly Rose are experienced players who will come off the bench and compete for striker roles.
The midfield will be anchored by senior tri-captain, Stacey Samora who has had a solid career for the Lady Spartans thus far. "Stacey has a tremendous work ethic. She will chase down every 50/50 ball and is a true leader by example," said Moroni. Samora, who is second on the career scoring list* with 13 goals to date will be playing in the center along with rookie Michaelle Kelly. Kelly is an excellent playmaker with a strong right and left foot. "She has the potential to be an all-conference player as a rookie," remarked Moroni. Nicole Biolsi will fill in the left midfield spot with her strong left footed cross and aggressive play. On the other side of the field will be junior, Natalie Steciuk who brings an energetic style of play to the field. Also competing for a starting role is sophomore, Maria Morgana who has greatly improved in the off season.
On the defensive end of the field, key returnees Ashley Nevins and senior tri-captain Liz Pagnani bring a wealth of experience and ability. The juniors will play a key role in helping newcomers Kayla Hubela and Christine Kennelly protect the backfield. "It is our goal to reduce the amount of goals we gave up, especially on corner kicks," stated Moroni. Freshmen Amanda Nespolini will look to gain valuable experience this year off the bench. Completing the backfield are juniors Renee Remmers and Patricia Acciavatti who will be role players coming off the bench this season. Remmers has excellent long distance speed and is a solid catch up defender. Acciavatti is back after taking most of last season off due to her second ACL injury.
Moroni is probably most excited about the new faces in the goal this year. Freshmen Julia Karl will land the starting role and brings athleticism and talent to the net. Karl has played on numerous travel and club teams and will adjust to the college style of play very easily. Cynthia Campion, another freshmen will back up Karl in goal this season. "This is the first time that I've had two goalies that can also play in the field," commented Moroni.
"This year's team allows for a different style of play then what we are used to. We plan to play more possession soccer and less kick and run," noted Moroni. "I think we can be very competitive this season."
The Lady Spartan's are slated to kick off their season against Mount Saint Vincent on Wednesday September 3rd at Herb Reisman Field.
*Career records based on NCAA Division II records only.