2009 USF Women's Soccer Outlook

The Lady Cougars led by second year head coach Christy Young are primed and ready for a run at an MCC Conference title and potentially a national appearance. With the transition year out of the way, there is no where for this team to go but up. While last years season ended far too quickly in an extremely close semifinals game, the table is truly set for an outstanding year to begin. With a core of eight excited, optimistic, and mature seniors the entire team is eagerly anticipating the start of the 2009 season.

Leading the Cougars this year are seniors Melissa Ellisen, Kara Schultheis, Sara Glassley, Hilary Powers, Jessica Taghon, Erin Frolicher and Sara Schlotterback. Up top Melissa Ellisen, Sarah Glassley, and Hilary Powers will be a triple threat. Melissa and Sarah alone added 16 goals to the Cougar attack. After injuring her knee during the first practice of the 2008 season and taking the rest of the season off, Hilary Powers looks to be in top condition and ready to contribute. Melissa Ellisen returns as one of the teams leading scorers, and Sarah Glassley will continue to find herself in the right place at the right time scoring goals when needed. Newcomer Jordan Kyle will bring excitement to the teams offensive threat.

At midfield the Cougars have a wide mix of experience to lead the way. Jessica Taghon, as a senior, will be a strong presence, while Katie Freygang who took last year off to recover from ACL surgery will anchor the group. Returning 2008 All-Conference player Angie Carusone who was the second leading goal scorer last year will be back to continue to provide a potent offensive threat. Ft. Wayne natives Tracey Gordon and Jenna Mahon will round out this experienced group of midfielders.

Leading the backs will be senior Kara Schultheis and 2008 All-Conference player Katie Christian. Returning starters Mallory Schon and Michelle Domenick will see more playing time in the back, while Erin Frolicher will add to the overall depth at defense. Rounding out the Cougars defense will be newcomers Emma Charais, Lauren Herber, and Laurin Greulich. Competition for the goalkeepers spot will be exciting with Sarah Schlotterback, Kari Baughn, Ashley Holt, Emma McCoy, and Kristen Clason all looking to spend time in the net. The Cougars will be a tough team beat with so much talent.

With all of the talent and experience of this years Lady Cougars soccer team, it's easy to see why the anticipation is high. Coach Young and assistants Stacey Rider, Natalie Weigmann, and Kelli Linson, will be stressing hard work, unity, and teamwork.