Temple University Athletics
2003 WOMEN'S SOCCER OUTLOOK
8.16.03 | Women's Soccer
GoalKeepers
In junior, Jackie Mauro and heralded rookie Elizabeth Tarasevich, the Owls have two highly talented keepers. Mauro will be returning after a season ending injury against Massachusetts (October 25). The Owls were A-10 contenders until the loss of Mauro. She is completely recovered. "Tarasevich, at 5'10, has a commanding presence and tenacity combined with a wealth of experience at the highest level of club and high school competition makes the 2003 Owls a contender in the A-10 conference, " said Mc Williams. Mauro and Tarasevich will share the duties in net, added Mc Williams.
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Defense
On defense there will be many changes. One player, returning is sophomore defender Patricia "Trish" Dalton will be playing on the right side of the defense. Speaking on Dalton McWilliams said, "She is a very strong, tough and possesses a deadly accurate passing ability that can be delivered up to 50 yards. Trish also brings a remarkable talent in set pieces where she can pinpoint teammates on a consistent basis".
Johanna Yemm will be in the middle of the defense. Mc Williams said of Yemm "Johanna has the ability to deny attacking players time or space with her intense pressure. With her experience brings composure and fortitude to this young defense." Supporting Johanna will be sophomore Jackie Conn. "Conn was a standout freshman, she brings strength, tenacity and is one of the toughest defenders on the team", said McWilliams.
Two freshmen newcomers Kamille Edward's, a Regional High School All-American from Parsippany, NJ and Christina Brunache, starting defender for St. Pius X high school, Georgia State Champions (ranked 10 nationally) will be tested early and often. "These two highly touted players are expected to make an immediate impact, and should be ready when the A-10 conference schedule starts in late September," said Mc Williams. Sophomore, Amanda Anderson will ensure a highly competitive competition for either starting position in the defense. Also, senior transfer Sara Meehan a talented defender will add depth and experience.
Midfield
"The midfield is talented, experienced and competition will be very exciting to watch, "predicts Mc Williams. Juniors Christine McInaw, Courtney Fritz, Courtney Eaton, Melissa Foley, sophomore, Kiana Johnson and freshman Elena Hekimian will provide the strongest ever pool of talented athletes who will compete on a daily basis for starting positions.
McInaw, a crafty, creative and tactically savvy player will be counted on to "control the game." McInaw will be supported by an equally talented player in Courtney Eaton. Speaking on Eaton Mc Williams said "She is slick ball handling, speed and understanding of the "90 minute game" brings her solid, deliberate style into the midfield". Junior, Courtney Fritz, another crafty ball handler who can play anywhere will be counted on to make an impact as well in the central midfield. Johnson has the speed, quickness and accurate shooting skills from just about anywhere. "Johnson looks to improve on her freshman year and make the impact on the game as only she can," said Mc Williams.
Foley and freshman, Hekimian look to be the outside midfielder. Foley, a tall, speedy player who brings a very strong "air game" along with experience will give defenders fits when attacking the goal. Hekimian, from Columbia, Maryland is a fast, quick footed and extremely crafty and evasive player. "Hekimian "soccer personality" will be showcased on the left side of the midfield. Hekimian and Foley have similar styles attacking, but their defensive skills are without a match. With an outside midfielder who can attack and defend as they do, the Owls are a more complete team, " said Mc Williams
Returning forwards, twin sisters, sophomores, Samantha and Stephanie Vietry have already made an impact in the A-10. Both were chosen by coaches on the 2002 All-Rookie Team. "They are the total package, as students and athletes. They love to play, their passion, knowledge, skills and most of all they have fun playing this game. Sam and Steph are very competitive and they are constantly challenging their teammates to take it to the next level", said Mc Williams.
Freshmen forward, Kelly Lare, Archbishop Wood High School's all-time season goal scorer brings depth and the ability to "find the net." "Lare will add to the Owls ability to change the game with her skill and experience", said Mc Williams. Freshman, Katie Louth, a highly talented and versatile player. "Louth will no doubt make an immediate impact in several positions including midfield and defense," states McWilliams.
"The 2003 Temple women's soccer team has experience and talent in every aspect involved in playing this game at the highest level. Yet this is the youngest team under my tenure, I am very confident that we will have a strong season and the 10 homes games on our schedule should help the newcomers adjust. It is always my goal to make the A-10 conference tournament and win it. The NCAA's is the ultimate goal, I think if we remain healthy, focused and stay together we can achieve our goals," said McWilliams.
