Aug. 11, 2009
PHOTO GALLERY
PHILADELPHIA – With its season-opener just two weeks away – at Drexel, Tuesday, August 25 at 7 PM – La Salle Women’s Soccer is in full swing with its preseason camp. They are holding practice at least twice a day, player meetings, and team-building sessions in an effort to return to the Atlantic 10 Championships for the third time in six years.
The team will also have some extra motivation for one more push at an A-10 berth – missing the postseason narrowly last year (a tiebreaker rule) and featuring a plethora of senior leadership as 10 Explorers return for their final season in the Blue and Gold.
“This is our last year and we want to go out with a winning season, make the A-10s and leave our mark at the school,” said Sara Copare. “We feel we are coming in with a lot of depth, everyone is really working hard and we can accomplish these goals.”
Ally Kenney added “Since we made A-10s as freshmen, we know what its like to make it and we know what we have to do. And after last year just missing it, we know how that feels as well. We want to make this the best season ever and we the talent and the mentality to do whatever it takes to win.”
In for their first preseason camp at La Salle are six freshmen – playing right along side these veterans and trying to make an impact and improve the team however they can.
Two of them answered some questions about their experiences so far – Diana Allen and Zovel Hyre.
How has camp been so far?
Diana – Tough, but I am handling it. I have blisters, swollen ankles, but I am pushing through it.
Zovel – I’ve really liked it. The level is great – high intensity – and I want to keep up my intensity in order to improve as a player.
What was your reaction to the fitness expectations?
Diana – I expected it. I have a few friends that already play Division I soccer, so they warned me about what preseason was going to be like – with all the running – so I prepared for it.
Zovel – I expected the fitness level to be high. I ran track as well as played soccer, so once I found out specifically what we needed to do I was able to work on those areas more.
What brought you to La Salle?
Diana – I attended a camp here last year and was able to meet the coaches and played with the team. Everyone was really friendly and they seemed like a really bonded team and that is what really pulled me in; the team chemistry.
Zovel – I was approached after a soccer tournament and then I researched the information Paul gave me and what I was able to find online. After I visited other schools, I didn’t like them. Then, I came here and I just loved it. I didn’t want to go anywhere else. I watched a practice and saw the high level that they play at and the honors program here really drew me to the school.
What goals have you set for yourself this year?
Diana – I hope to become the best player I can. I want to improve as a player and in my fitness and blend into the team.
Zovel – I want to blend in with the team and improve on my weaknesses. I would love to get playing time as soon as possible, but I just want to do well on the field as well as in the classroom.
The Explorers will be at La Salle a few more days before heading out on their annual preseason week at the shore. Once they return, they are just days away from starting the 2009 season.
