Having only lost two starting seniors and adding a plethora
of incoming talent, the Northland women’s soccer program is setting the bar
high for itself this year. First-year head coach Nathan Chatfield had this to
say: “The team as a whole really seems to be embracing the challenge of this
year. We have more overall talent than we’ve had in recent years and we’re
looking to mix that talent with a workers' mindset and maximize our potential
for this upcoming season.” The Pioneer roster is headed by a veteran back-line
featuring seniors Kristy Legg and Katherine Whitwell as well as juniors
Bethany Chatfield and Nicole Wung. Nicole Wung received NCCAA Second
Team All-American honors last year. “I am really looking for leadership out of
the back for us,” Coach Chatfield added, “as we some very experienced players and two
captains heading up our defense.” Another senior to add to the mix is outside
midfielder Kristy Maholic. Kristy will be counted on to provide some more punch
to the attack as well as solid crosses to the attackers.
Returning standouts also include a large sophomore class
that provides some second-year talent as well. Kate Matthai, who played
primarily in the goal last year, will be counted on this year to score goals
rather than prevent them. “Kate has great field awareness and a good touch on
the ball. I’m excited to put her in a play-making position that allows her creativity
to flourish,” said Coach Chatfield. Also bolstering the middle of the field for the
Lady Pioneers is the physical presence of Rebecca Newton. “I am excited to have
Rebecca in a holding midfield role. She is tall, strong, aggressive, and
possesses the ball quite well. She could play an invaluable role for us this
year. Also, she is a natural leader and, even as sophomore, will help to
provide solid leadership through the defense and midfield,” Coach Chatfield lauded.
Also returning for the Pioneers are several more sophomores that include Bryn
Spencer, Jennifer Sullivan, Jo Paine, and Carrissa Koenig.
The freshman class will also be very involved in the
Pioneers’ plans for this year. Heading up that class are incoming players
Heather Thompson and Elissa Whigham, both of whom will play vital roles for the
Lady Pioneers. Transfer student Jami Beiler will also be an asset as the
Pioneers look to challenge for a Regional title and a trip to the National
Tournament in Kissimmee, Florida.
“Traditionally, our region has been dominated by one team,
and that team has earned the right to be called the favorite going into this
year. As a team, though, we feel that the region is up for grabs this year and
we will, by God’s grace, be a solid contender this year. We’re committed to
playing soccer the right way, and when you play soccer the right way, you always
have a shot at winning,” said Coach Chatfield.
The Lady Pioneers open their season with an away game at
Lakeland College on September 8.