MONROE, C.T. — Given the number of experienced and skilled returnees and what unfolded in preseason Coach Katy Kreiner has confidence her Masuk High girls soccer team can have a special campaign, perhaps with a South-West Conference title run in the making.
“We are excited for the upcoming season after winning the Wethersfield Jamboree against three strong teams: Wethersfield, Newington, and Maloney. Our team didn’t concede any goals and went undefeated. We aim to win the SWC Championship this season and with 11 juniors and 7 seniors, we have the experience and depth to perform well in the State Tournament,” the coach said.
Captains are senior forward Brianna VanDerheyden, senior defender Emily Kass, and junior goalkeeper Kara Leandres. Other players to watch include a solid group of juniors and seniors, along with a freshman newcomer.
Junior Amelia Stephens is an attacking center midfielder, in her third year of varsity. She will lead the team’s attack.
Junior Ella McGee is a striker/wing, also in her third year on the varsity team. “One of our top goal scorers. Great speed and ability to score,” Kreiner said.
Senior Lauren Eigo is a defensive center midfielder, described by her coach as “a critical part of the team’s defense and transition to attack. Great in the air.”
VanDerheyden, a striker, is a four-year varsity team member. “Power and ability to score from far out,” best describe the captain, Kreiner said.
Senior Tatiana Fabryk, a center defender, is also a four-year varsity player who will anchor the back line.
Junior Elyse Smith, a third-year varsity player, is on the wing. She is technically strong and big part of the team attack, Kreiner said.
Freshman Julia Hourigan fits into the lineup from the start. “Fantastic Defender — composed and skilled to get out of pressure situations,” the coach said.
The regular season begins with a pair of road contests as the Panthers visit Joel Barlow of Redding Thursday, Sept. 5, at 5 p.m. and go to Weston Tuesday, Sept. 10, at 6 p.m. The first home contest is Thursday, Sept. 12, when New Milford comes to Monroe for a 6 p.m. game.
All respectful comments with the commenter’s first and last name are welcome.
