Girls soccer: Scouting the Fox Valley
Aurora Central CatholicCoach: Kristy Kane
Conference: Metro Suburban West
2015 record/finish: 14-8. The Chargers lost in a Class 1A supersectional to Chicago Latin.
Top returning athletes: Bryanna Mandarino (sr., GK), Anna Dudziak (so., DEF), Kiley Bruss (sr., MID), Megan Crabb (sr., FOR), Jasmine Mandujano (sr., DEF/FOR), Natalie Bruss (jr., DEF), Gina Cortino (jr., MID), Alex Montalbano (so., GK)
Top newcomers: Victoria Opperman (fr., DEF), Elise Conerad (fr., DEF)
Season outlook: After a record-setting season, Aurora Central prepares for a new campaign while Kane is leaving talk of trying to equal or better last year's accomplishments out of the equation. The 2015 Chargers got hot in the postseason and came within one game of qualifying for the Class 1A state finals. "Last year was unexpected to a degree," Kane said. "The players on this year's team were lucky to be a part of what happened last year, and no matter what happens this year, it was a great opportunity for them to be part of that. What we have are kids who are enjoying playing soccer." Gone is the program's first true star: Jordyn Sundberg, now at Augustana. But the current team has keeper Mandarino, who is the program's first Division I recruit, having signed with Eastern Kentucky. "She can make a difference in any game," Kane said. Although only a sophomore, defender Dudziak is another key on this year's team.
BataviaCoach: Mark Gianfrancesco
Conference: Upstate Eight River
2015 record/finish: 14-4-4. The Bulldogs lost a Class 3A regional title match to Conant.
Top returning athletes: Megan McEachern (sr., FOR), Rachel Reinecke (sr., MID), Alyssa Knutson (sr., DEF), Abby Wood (sr., DEF), MacKenzie Foster (jr., MID), Keegan Maris (jr., FOR), Jenny Scara (jr., GK)
Top newcomers: Cameron Hindel (jr., DEF), Gracey DiBiase (so., MID), Emma Rydholm (so., DEF)
Season outlook: The first thing to know about Batavia's team this year is that there is talent through the lineup. The second is to know that there are a lot of players - including some of the nine freshmen playing on the JV team this year - who you'll see in coming seasons who are equally talented. "We have some new girls to the varsity who have come to the team hungry and this puts the girls who were already here on notice," Gianfrancesco said. "It's creating a nice competition in training and it continues into our games. It's nice to have experience and leadership. But some of those JV girls might be at the varsity level by the end of the season." McEachern returns for her senior year as one of the area's impact players. She has led the Bulldogs in scoring in each of her three seasons and has already shown she intends to cap her career with a fine season. "We're trying to play her in a role where she can be influential both with other players on the field and within the formation,"Gianfrancesco said. "For her club, she plays deeper in the formation and tries to set up people. For us, she is the pinnacle of what we do and a lot of stuff runs through her." The Bulldogs are strong from keeper Scara through midfielders Reinecke and Foster through to McEachern. The team has found an impact player in sophomore midfielder DiBiase.
BartlettCoach: Vince DiNuzzo, 1st year
Conference: Upstate Eight Valley
2015 record: 12-10-1
Top returning athletes: Mariela Alba (sr., MF), Jenna Dombrowski (so., D/MF), Alyssa Modugno (so., D).
Top newcomers: Shelley Lyjak (sr., F) Kaitlin Brohan (sr., MF), Teagan Noesen ((fr., GK).
Season outlook: DiNuzzo maybe a first-year coach, but his experience guiding the Hawks' boys team within 2 minutes of a state championship berth can only help his first go-round with the girls squad. And his standards don't budge. "Our goals for the season will be to stay healthy, win a conference title, be the best girls team in Bartlett history and to compete in the state championship game," said Di Nuzzo, who echoed that sentiment last summer with the boys. Thirteen players return from last year's team that lost to St. Charles East in the regional final, led by all-area returnee Alba, a 4-year starting midfielder who's University of Chicago-bound with a ton of speed and ability to attack. Dombrowski, a holding mid who earned honorable mention consideration for her work, returns along with Modugno on defense while freshman Teagan Noesen takes over goalkeeping duties. The keys will be health, and trust for a team that has made strides the past few years. "(We) need to trust in one another and come together as a team. We also must stay committed to putting in the extra work that goes along with being a successful team," Di Nuzzo added. "Our team has gained a number of players who are going to make an immediate impact at the varsity level."
Burlington CentralCoach: Jess Arneson (2nd year, 19-3)
Conference: Big Northern East
2015 record/finish: 19-3, 11-1
Top returning athletes: Elizabeth Gousios (so., F), Jordan King (so., F/M) Abbi Ciganek (jr., GK), Megan Majewski (so., MF).
Top newcomer: Anna McMahon (jr., MF).
Season outlook: The Rockets return some major ammo up front in sophomores King and Gousios, all-area selections last season who dominated the BNC East. King scored 67 points on 30 goals and 7 assists en route to an all-area selection while Gousios also secured an all-area spot with 17 goals and 7 assists. It's a combo that's tough to stop. "They have been such a contribution and are so good because they can take what I ask of them and put it into action," Arneson said. "They can get an offense going and even do amazing things I don't even ask of them." But thinking the Rockets' offense is two-dimensional is another story. There's a lot of weapons to choose from, including Majewski, an honorable mention midfielder as a freshman last season, while McMahon and Sydney Pryor look to make a dent in the scoring column. "I've told the girls that this year we just need to focus on outscoring the other team," Arneson said. "As a result, we may have a couple of high-scoring games." The back line is young as freshman Taylor Abbott and Gracie Ozburn will anchor the defense and Ciganek, a goalkeeper who made 52 saves and assembled 9 shutouts last season, will guard the pipes along with sophomore Erin Rafferty, two dependable keepers according to Arneson.
Cary-GroveCoach: Ray Krystal (10th year)
Conference: Fox Valley (Valley)
2015 record/finish: 11-6-1, lost to Huntley in sectional final
Top returning athletes: Carli Petersen (sr., F), Genna Sobieszczyk (sr., F), Maddy Osimowicz (sr., MF), Kelly Stayart (so., MF).
Top newcomer: Payton Emond (Sr.).
Season outlook: The Trojans graduated two all-area defenders in Jenni Phillips and Candace Cunningham from a team that nearly defeated Huntley in the sectional final. But the strength looks to be in the midfield and up front, led by the versatile forward Sobieszczyk, a returning all-area honoree and Stayart, a mid who blossomed last season as a freshman. Both should help reinforce the attack and the academy style environment that gives everyone ample opportunity to compete on a daily basis in Krystal's program. "This means that our lineup at each level has the opportunity to change based on performance, effort and attitude," Krystal notes. "The upperclassmen have done a wonderful job of building community with positive relationships while competing which shows the quality of their character."
Crystal Lake SouthCoach: Jay Mueller (3rd year, 26-11-6)
Conference: Fox Valley (Valley)
2015 record/finish: 13-7-2, lost to Huntley in regional final
Top returning athletes: Jenny Luken (sr., MF), Katherine Siavelis (sr., MF), Jenna Ross (jr., D), Jessica Schoenfeldt (jr., MF), Raquel Hess (so., D).
Top newcomers: Brandie Minogue (sr., MF), Sam Sisto (sr., M/F), Courtney Segnstock (jr., M/F).
Season outlook: The Gators were axed by Huntley in the regional final but return 14 players with varsity experience, and it starts in the midfield with all-conference players Siavelis, who registered 11 goals and 4 assists last season, and Schoenfeldt, who notched 7 goals and 8 assists. "We have many strong offensive players which it make it difficult for teams to key in on any one threat," Mueller said. Minogue (2014 honorable mention), Luken, Sisto and Sengstock should aid Siavelis and Schoendfeldt but the offensive firepower and a talented upperclassman group shouldn't take away from the South tradition of tough defense and Ross, a 2014 all-area selection, and Hess should carry that baton for team that has its sights set high. "Our maturity and experience should allows us to play with any team in the area and compete for a conference championship in a very tough FVC," Mueller said.
Dundee-CrownCoach: Sebastian Falinski (9th year)
Conference: Fox Valley (Valley)
2015 record/finish: 4-14-1, 1-5
Top returning athletes: Alyssa Moreno (sr., M/F), Taylor Coffman (jr., MF), Sara Kuzynski (jr., D), Jenna Berlet (jr., D).
Top newcomers: Ashley Raby (sr., F), Emilie Hilton (sr., MF), Anna Keiltyka (so., F).
Season outlook: Depth. That's been an issue in recent years in Charger country but not this year. Moreno, an-all FVC and Daily Herald honorable mention selection who had 5 goals and 3 assists last season, should have others around her to open up the offense. "Looking at the roster this season, we have a large veteran group returning that brings a lot of experience with them," Falinski said, as Hilton, Keiltyka, Coffman are all in the mix. "I expect the newcomers to compete for starting positions and I expect the competition to be high among the girls which will hopefully translate to better and more consistent performances." It also helps that Raby is healthy. She was injured last season and will provide more strength up front.
East AuroraCoach: Obed Mendoza
Conference: Upstate Eight Valley
2015 record: 3-18.
Top returning athletes: Daisy Quinonez (so., GK), Maria Andrade (jr., MID), Lisully Ramirez (sr., MID/DEF), Yahaira Cerecero (sr., DEF), Karina Del Toro (sr., DEF), Jaqueline Montano (sr., MID), Marina Mendoza (sr., MID), Jazmin Mendez (jr., DEF), Bianca Esparza (sr., MID), Maria Magallon-Trejo (sr., MID), Marubeni Nieto (so., MID), Laura Torres (so., DEF), Leslie Carranza (jr., FOR)
Top newcomers: Brenda Pineda (jr., DEF), Jackie Cabrera (so., MID), Mantza Cazares (so., DEF/FOR)
Season outlook: Mendoza moved to the varsity girls coaching role at East Aurora in the offseason. He has significant ties to the Tomcats soccer program, having worked with the freshman boys team since 2005 and with the freshman girls the last two seasons. While the team Mendoza inherits won only three games in 2015, 14 girls return to battle in the strong Upstate Eight Conference Valley Division. "We have high hopes for this season with 14 returning players that making an experienced team," Mendoza said. "The girls all have a great desire to do better than their previous year and we expect to do so."
ElginCoach: Alicia Knoll (5th year, 21-49-5)
Conference: Upstate Eight River
2015 record: 9-9-2, 0-5-2
Top returning athletes: Hannah Erickson (jr., GK), Brittany Dazzo (so., MF), Kylie Graves (so., D).
Top newcomers: Marceci Santiago (sr., MF), Guadalupe Sanchez ((fr., MF), Emily Graves ((fr., MF), Hayly Munoz ((fr., F).
Season outlook: The Maroons will be full of youth and high on expectations but it stings not to have Dazzo in the lineup, a returning all-area/UEC mid who is still recovering from an ACL and MCL tear that occurred in the offseason. While Dazzo's speed, boot and ability on set pieces, let alone her 7 goals and 5 assists will be missed, Santiago rejoins the team after not playing her junior year to help stabilize a midfield that will include freshmen Sanchez and Emily Graves and Munoz up front. "We have a young team but we are confident that our attack will continue to progress as the year goes on," said Knoll. "We have a goal of finishing near the top of our conference and finishing the season with a winning record overall." It also helps that Erickson, a three-year starter, returns in net.
Elgin Academy Coach: Kevin Talbot (3rd year, 1-18-2 )
Conference: Independent School League
2015 record: 0-8-1
Top returning athletes: Emma May (sr., F), Olivia Oberdorf (sr., F), Sophie Borchart (jr., D), Jessica Martinez (so., D), Haley Dulabaum (so., D).
Top newcomers: Kalia Higa (jr., MF), Helen Borchart (jr., MF), Renee Scimeca ((fr., MF).
Season outlook: Captains May, Oberdorf and Sophie Borchart return from a team that was winless last season. The Hilltoppers will look for their first win since 2014 and hope the infusion of fresh talent can jump start that process. "We have a good mix of senior leadership and freshmen who are enthusiastic this season," says Talbot. "We are still very inexperienced so we're looking to build a foundation for the future."
GenevaCoach: Megan Owens
Conference: Upstate Eight River
2015 record/finish: 8-11-4. The Vikings lost to St. Charles North in a Class 3A regional title match.
Top returning athletes: Olivia Tegge (so., MID), Lauren Albrecht (so., MID), Emily Hauser (jr., DEF), Briar Schwardt (sr., DEF), Emma Harkleroad (jr., GK), Allie Mikos (sr., FOR)
Top newcomers: Sydney Gratz (fr., MID), Kiley Dominguez (sr., FOR), Jenna Dominguez (fr., FOR), Maddy Yelle (so., DEF), Molly McGavin (jr., FOR), Caitlin Farrell (fr., FOR), Jaden Ciesielski (so., FOR)
Season outlook: Two seasons ago, Geneva graduated more than just the core of a very successful team, and that caused a major influx of youth last year, and the Vikings struggled through a season marked by a sequence of narrow defeats. Those Geneva players are a year older and ready to move the team toward the success to which the program has become accustomed. "Last year wasn't a bad year, but in terms of the high standards we have for our program, it was tough to swallow some of those one-goal losses and ties. We've got our sights set a little higher this year," Owens said. While the Vikings have seniors such as Schwardt and Mikos to provide leadership, the bulk of the squad is youthful, and talented. Returning sophomores Tegge, Albrecht, Katelyn Keenehan and sisters Grace and Maddie Stellick are among those players who reloaded the roster a year ago. "I think we're going to surprise some teams this year," Owens said. "I think we're much improved and much more solid across the board. Our younger kids have improved by leaps and bounds. We're excited for the season and it's must a matter of getting into it." The team's newcomers have, including freshmen Gratz and Jenna Dominguez, have already shown their talent this season. "These younger kids can play. They're getting time on the field and some of them are starting," Owens said.
HampshireCoach: Sara O'Toole (3rd year, 5-31-1)
Conference: Fox Valley (Fox)
2015 record: 1-21, 0-6
Top returning athletes: McCall Rafferty (sr., MF), Alexa Panagakos (sr., D), Catie Kochanski (sr., GK), Emily Hinners (sr., D), Megahn McIntyre (jr., MF), Darcy Dalby (jr., MF), Morgan Heileman (jr., MF), Marissa Bessner (so., F).
Top newcomers: Alana Hatanaka (fr., GK/MF), Alyssa Dimaano ((fr., F), Hayley Rossi ((fr., F).
Season outlook: While Panagakos returns as an all-FVC defender last season, the Whip-Purs are in desperate need of offense. O'Toole hopes the infusion of 5 new offensive players will be exactly what the doctor ordered. "We have some great talent on the offensive end we just need to work as a unit to make it happen," said O'Toole, who hopes communication with the center mids will provide more opportunities scoring this season. "Dalby and McIntyre will be picking up a lot of the slack and they will be helped by Alyssa Dimaano and Alana Hatanaka, both new freshmen who have a great skill set and reading the game and have already helped with the offensive side we did not have last year." As far as the defense is concerned, Panagakos' experience will be relied upon. "(It's) been a great asset to our defense and this year being a senior and one of our captains, she will be a great leader being one of our key center backs this season," said O'Toole.
Harvest ChristianCoach: Nate Baron (1st year)
Conference: Northeastern Athletic
2015 record: 10-7 4-1
Top returning athletes: Ellie Burzlaff (sr., F), Holly Colcalsure (so., MF), Hannah Caldwell (so., MF/D), Sonja Jenkins (so., MF/D) Isamar Garcia (so., GK), Taylor Keeran (so., M), Claire Schoepke (so., D).
Top newcomers: Rebecca Gafrick (fr., M/F), Jessica Olsen (fr., M/F).
Season outlook: Baron, who took over the boys program last fall, does the same with the girls this spring. He inherits a young team with the exception of Burzlaff, the lone senior and a 2014 all-area forward who notched 5 goals and 2 assists in 2015. The Lions will have to make up for the loss of freshman Amanda Moore, who scored 17 goals and all-area/conference forward Morgan Lockwood, who led the team in assists with 6 and scored 13 goals. "We will need to play good, gritty, aggressive, possession-style soccer in order to have broad success," Baron says of a group, who between Colclasure, Jenkins, Keeran and Caldwell scored 6 goals. "This is a hardworking, unified group of girls and I expect they will do well based on that alone."
HuntleyCoach: Kris Grabner (13th year, 197-65-11)
Conference: Fox Valley (Valley)
2015 record: 19-4, lost to Barrington in supersectional
Top returning athletes: Taryn Jakubowski (sr., MF), Alyssa Kaufman (sr., F), Paige Renkosik (sr., GK), Bri Wilder (sr., MF), Erin Gaitsch (sr., D), Stephanie Nobel (sr., D), Tori Padal (sr., F), Sam Heustis (jr., D), Tayah Owens (jr., D).
Top newcomers: Ally Sunter (sr., MF), Yulissa Solis (sr., F).
Season outlook: The Red Raiders are loaded yet again for another deep run into the postseason with 9 of 11 starters in place. The two who graduated - forward Deanna Hecht (28 goals) and Katie Costantino (9 assists) - are "big shoes to fill" according to Grabner. But Kaufman and Jakubowski, returning all-area selections, are certainly able to meet the task. Kaufman scored 8 goals and 13 assists last season while the Creighton-bound Jakubowski notched 14 goals and 15 assists. "Taryn filled into more of role of assisting last year whereas the year before Deanna was out so she had to step up the goal scoring. She'll have to pick it up a little bit as well," Grabner said. "(Alyssa) could easily put up 15 goals - she has the ability, she has the quickness, she has the shot so it's just putting it all together." Others will have chances on the attack but defensively is where 5 regulars and 4 starters will roam again, led by Heustis, an all-area honorable mention from last year, Owens, Gaitsch and Noble. Renkosik, another honorable mention who tallied 9 shutouts with 9 goals allowed in 20 games, will be there to protect the pipes in what should be another stout defensive group. But there's always room for improvement and Huntley will have to mop up some things that plagued it at times last season. "We need to grow technically, that's one of the biggest things we'll shoot for because it'll make us a better team," Grabner said. "But when you've been to the super a couple times, you're looking for that next step."
JacobsCoach: Stephanie Schuck (3rd year)
Conference: Fox Valley (Valley)
2015 record: 4-16-1
Top returning athletes: Talia Surges (sr., MF), Caroline Craig (sr., D), Caitlin Strong (so., MF).
Top newcomers: Cassie Kowalski ((fr., MF), Hannah Mohan ((fr., MF)
Season outlook: The Golden Eagles return 12 players from last year's group, among them all-conference defender Craig in the backfield, a smart defender who knows how to communicate well according to Schuck. All-conference mid Surges (4 goals, 1 assist) returns as well as Strong, who added 6 goals and 2 assists last season. "Caitlin's a very smart player who can pick her head up and play strong ball where we want it," Schuck said. "Talia is quick on the ball and a strong shot." Freshmen Kowalski and Mohan will have their chances, as Kowalski's creativity and Mohan's composure should give Jacobs a lot to look forward to this season. "This group is hardworking, positive and full of enthusiasm for the season," Schuck said. "Our goals are to focus on one day at a time and continue to keep momentum for the last day going forward."
KanelandCoach: Scott Parillo
Conference: Northern Illinois Big 12
2015 record/finish: 19-4. The Knights lost a Class 2A supersectional to Peoria Notre Dame
Top returning athletes: Emily Chapman (sr., GK), Gabby Cano (sr., MID), Holly Collingbourne (jr., MID)
Top newcomers: Becca Richtman (jr., MID), Rachel Lutter (fr., DEF), Grace Purcell (fr., MID), Abbie Lomahan (fr., MID/FOR)
Season outlook: It's easy to look at Kaneland's success last season and then at the talent on this year's roster and start making some wild predictions. For their part, the Knights aren't focused on repeating their 2015 run, which saw them fall one match short of the Class 2A finals. "I think they want to be successful," Parillo said. "But I'm not talking about how far they can go or anything like that. It's such a hard thing to do, to make it or to make it back. It takes luck and skill, and we had luck and skill last year. We'll see what happens." What's very true is that the Knights are strong on the field, and they have a solid core, starting with senior keeper Chapman, who was one of the forces that powered their postseason success in 2015 and will be a bedrock in the formation again this season. "Her footwork is so good," Parillo said. "When she was a freshman, she was the JV goalie, but if they didn't have a game, I'd bring her up and she'd play forward, and she scored 7 or 8 goals. She may be the best goalie I've ever had, and I had Jordan Ginther, who played for Purdue." Further forward in the formation, the Knights have senior Gano, who played defense last year due to injuries in Kaneland's central defense. Gano has returned to midfield this season, where she will work with, among others, Collingbourne, who is a creative force.
LarkinCoach: Ken Hall (15th year)
Conference: Upstate Eight River
2015 record: 11-11-1
Top returning athletes: Sam Moreno (sr., MF), Maricruz Ortiz (jr., MF), Tanya Franco (jr., MF), Stephanie Nunez (jr., F).
Top newcomers: Marisol Villagomez (fr., MF).
Season outlook: Nine of 11 starters return for the Royals, who had a winning record prior to the last season's playoffs. Larkin will have to step up its consistency with a tougher schedule and will need more high profile wins to succeed in 2016. "Hopefully with everybody being a year older and getting a little more experience we're going to be better as a team," Hall says. They'll have a chance to do so with the likes of all-area/UEC mid Moreno, an unselfish player who's a good dribbler, passer and solid at holding down the midfield. But her coach has offered her a challenge in her senior year. "She has a tendency to pass up good scoring chances to pass to another player," said Hall. "I really challenged her to take more shots this year and definitely score more goals than she has in the past." Nunez, who had 17 goals, figures to be in the offensive mix and Hall hopes Ortiz can add to that as well. Karina Trujillo and Villagomez will be looked upon to hold counterattacks in the back along with a defense that primarily is intact from last season.
RosaryCoach: Janice Eddington
Conference: Girls Catholic Athletic Conference, White Division
2015 record: 8-8-1.
Top returning athletes: Sarah Woodford (so., MID/DEF), Gabriella Wagoner (sr., FOR), Erin Hawkins (jr., MID), Grace Goheen (sr., MID), Sonja Popovich (sr., MID), Caroline Maley (sr., MID), Katherine Thielen (sr., DEF), Samantha Suchaczewski (jr., DEF), Angela Kvitek (jr., DEF), Emma Porteous (jr., DEF), Maysara Mitchell (sr., MID)
Top newcomers: Madeline Powers (so., MID/FOR), Tiffany Hamling (jr., FOR), Elizabeth Kvitek (jr., MID/DEF), Julia Isaacs (jr., GK)
Season outlook: While this is Eddington's first season as head coach of the Rosary varsity team, she's very familiar with the roster. She worked two seasons as the JV assistant and then two more as the varsity assistant before taking the head coaching position in the last offseason. "It's a great transition to see the kids as freshmen and now see them as varsity players and seniors who are ready for graduation." Rosary has graduated a pair of massive talents in the last two seasons, first in keeper Lauren Frasca, who left in 2014 and is at DePaul and then forward Quincy Kellett, who is now at Dayton. "We're young and inexperienced and we're looking for those kids who have been here to be more vocal and intense. We've been trying new things with the new girls, trying to get them to play some new positions. We have had a top-heavy schedule so far with Geneva, Glenbard North and Kaneland, but I'm happy with how we've improved with each game," Eddington said. After a season without a conference affiliation, Rosary is in the White Division of the GCAC, with opponents including Bishop McNamara. DeLa Salle, DePaul, Montini, Queen of Peace, Regina Dominican and Resurrection. Of those schools, only Montini is an opponent Rosary has competed against much in the past. "We had to play St. Francis and Montini three times last year, and that was a bit redundant, especially toward the end of the season. We haven't seen most of the teams in the GCAC and most of the games are in Chicago, but it is a good change."
St. Charles EastCoach: Paul Jennison
Conference: Upstate Eight River
2015 record/finish: 21-2-1. The Saints lost a Class 3A sectional semifinal to Conant.
Top returning athletes: Alison Chesterfield (sr., GK), Julia Peterson (sr., DEF), Hannah Kolb (jr., MID), Kaitlyn Dziubinski (jr., MID), Chantel Carranza (so., FOR), Claire Rasmussen (jr., FOR), Shannon Gatehouse (sr., MID), Kyla Augustine (jr., MID), Morgan Kull (so., DEF)
Top newcomers: Alessia D'Argento (so., MID), Madison Cady (so., MID), Tory Schumann (jr., DEF), Grace Griffin (fr., GK)
Season outlook: By any definition, St. Charles East's program is back among the state's elite. The Saints won 40 matches in the last two seasons, including a 2014 campaign that took the Saints all the way to the state title match before they fell to New Trier. And the squad is 5-0 this season and has yet to give up a goal. The program has graduated a considerable number of talented players, but this year's team is strong from keeper Chesterfield, through defenders such as Peterson to midfielders including Kolb and Gatehouse through forwards Rasmussen and Carranza. "When you graduate the quality we have, it leaves questions," Jennison said. "But it leads to more anticipation for the girls who are coming it. It's been a great start to the season with this year's team starting to gel. We've been able to rotate all of them into games, and we have a feeling that we don't have any superstars, that we're not going to win with one or two players but with the whole team." Given the program's pedigree (8 state titles from 1990-2000), Jennison knows there will be expectations for the team. But those expectations aren't something the Saints themselves are creating. "I think that's more from the outside," Jennison said. "They just want to have fun, enjoy playing soccer with each other and try not to worry about what happens each day, because each day is a chance to get better."
St. Charles NorthCoach: Brian Harks
Conference: Upstate Eight River
2015 record/finish: 20-3-2. The North Stars lost a Class 3A title match to Conant.
Top returning athletes: Lauren Neslund (sr., DEF), Morgan Rerko (sr., MID), Hailey Rydberg (so., MID), Gia Wahlberg (so., FOR)
Top newcomers: Lauren Willis (sr., DEF), Elli Wahlberg (sr., MID), K.B. Kusswurm (jr., MID), Amanda Czerniak (jr., MID), Claire Barresi (jr., DEF), Madison Kaufman (jr., MID)
Season outlook: Since its first season in 2001, St. Charles North had one head coach guiding its program: Ruth Vostal, who led the North Stars to three spots in the Final Four and runner-up finishes in 2004 and 2012. Vostal retired after the 2015 season and Harks took the head coaching job in the offseason. Harks is very familiar to North Stars players, having spent the last seven years in various roles within the program. Harks has as his assistant coach Eric Willson, the school's boys soccer coach. "Well over half the team had me as their coach before," Harks said. "It does help with the 'get to know you' period because they know the expectations I have and I know the expectations they have as players. I'm humble to follow (Vostal) and to work in the program she started, and I'm thankful for the previous relationship with both her and the players so we can continue to build the traditions of the program." The North stars are already off to a solid 3-1 start and have tremendous talents in the squad, moving through defenders such as Neslund to midfielders including Rerko and Rydberg to forward Wahlberg. But overall, St. Charles North's program is based on an attitude as much as its talent, and is known for its grit and fighting spirit, something Harks said is evident in the 2016 team. "In the first couple of weeks, we put a huge emphasis on toughness and on defining how you can tangibly measure toughness. 'Fight,' which they say a lot, is synonymous with toughness. If we can look back on a week and say that our toughest opponent was ourselves, we'll have done our job for the week," he said.
St. EdwardCoach: Tim Brieger (21st year, 253-175-43)
Conference: Metro Suburban West
2015 record/finish: 14-8, lost in sectional final
Top returning athletes: Ashley Lopez (sr., MF), Gabriella Tripicchio (sr., D), Cecilia Kochanek (jr., F), Taylor Gredzieleski (so., D), Ava Matsas (jr., MF), Maddison Knott (so., MF), Yssa Sto. Domingo (so., MF), Marial Franco (so., D/GK).
Top newcomers: Kiana Horn (jr., F), Madalynn Duffy (fr., F), Lauren Biggins (fr., D), Katie Ellsworth (fr., MF), Anissa Gomez (fr., GK).
Season outlook: Usually for the dean of Fox Valley soccer coaches, it's reload. But for the first time in ages Brieger and the Green Wave will look to retool after 4 years of just wickedly-good talent. Last year's graduation parted ways with offensive juggernauts Chelsea Gnan and Megan Kearney, keeper Paige Dykstra and defenders Kathleen Duffy and Casey Gredzieleski. It's a lot to replace from a regional championship team who's 2 years removed from a third-place finish at state but Lopez, Kochanek and Trippichio are the holdovers from those teams and will provide experience to 17 freshmen and sophomores. "(We're) only returning 7 goals from last year," Brieger said of Lopez, Kochanek and Knott. "We will look to some new faces to put the ball in the net." Kochanek will be moving up top to join with Duffy to lead the Wave attack while in the back Gredzieleski takes over the job from her sister as the new center back. In goal, Gomez, Franco and senior Natalie McQueen will platoon a position that has been concrete for over half a decade. "One of the biggest changes is in goal," Brieger exclaims. "For the first time in almost 7 years, we'll not have a Paige (Gannon and Dykstra) in goal."
South ElginCoach: Tiffany Disher (10th year, 76-74-10 )
Conference: Upstate Eight Valley
2015 record/finish: 10-11-2, lost to Cary-Grove in sectional semifinal
Top returning athletes: Corinne Hildebrandt (sr., D), Alena Ignatev (sr., MF), Missy Greco (jr., MF), Ari Walters (jr., D/M).
Season outlook: Regional champs from last year, the Storm will have to fill the void defensively of all-area Veronica Noyszewski, goalkeeper Jourdan Valkner as well as offensive stars Delaney Kelleher, Alyssa Shipon and Julie Greco that lost to Cary-Grove in overtime at the Huntley sectional. But back are last year's all-area selections Greco (10 goals, 4 assists), as well as Hildebrandt, an outside defender who's speed and knowledge can create many scoring opportunities. The Storm still posses a veteran-laden team with knowledgeable players that work well together. But the aspect this year will be coming together as a team and to spread the goals throughout, a regular dynamic for the Storm. "I think we're going to rely on that this year," said Disher, who will also look to Ignatev to add to the scoring column. "We're going to have to be able to play 80 minutes of quality soccer, limit our mistakes and capitalize on our opportunities." Junior starter Alyssa Kalke is back in the mix along with Hildebrandt and Walters on defense while Disher has 3 keepers to choose from to replace Valkner. "We will be looking to find the right combination of players for a successful season," Disher said. "We're hoping to advance further in the playoffs and win a sectional title."
StreamwoodCoach: Kristin Duffy (1st year)
Conference: Upstate Eight River
2015 record: 12-12
Top returning athletes: Karina Nevarez (sr., F), Stephanie Corona (sr., F), Alondra Blanco (jr., MF), Shonali Pierce (jr., MF), Alex Bonilla (so., D), Esmeralda Navarro (so., D).
Top newcomers: Michaela Gundersen (so., MF), Paulina Carranza ((fr., MF), Melanie Ramirez ((fr., MF).
Season outlook: First-year coach Duffy takes over for Matt Polovin, who will remain as an assistant. Her background will surely help the Sabres. A defender who graduated from Naperville Central in 2007, Duffy's had coaching stops at Urbana and Plainfield East en route to Streamwood, where she was the boys freshman coach last fall. A defensive-minded coach, Duffy will look to make that a Sabres strength. "I look at the game more defensively," said Duffy. "I'm making sure they're defending right so when they're dropping back, they're also having a strong defensive game." That'll start with the sweeper Navarro, who will be depended on to control the back and keep things in shape along with Bonilla. But for the first time in 4 years, the Sabres won't have the reigning Daily Herald all-area captain Tawny Carroll, who now plays at Drake. Carroll totaled 85 goals and 54 assists, including 31 goals and 19 assists in 2015. The Sabres will move forward and captain Blanco, a 2-time honorable mention with 8 goals and 3 assist last season, will be the focal point in the midfield directing while Pierce, Nevarez and Corona will look to capitalize on Blanco's crossing ability and good shot. But Duffy will try to infuse 7 freshmen and sophomores. "We have a young team so it's a lot of players who haven't played together yet," Duffy said. "That's the biggest challenge right now is getting them all connected."
West AuroraCoach: Laura Wagley
Conference: Upstate Eight Valley
2015 record: 9-11-3
Top returning athletes: Katharine Stephens (jr., FOR), Riley O'Brien (so., FOR), Mariyah Zeitz (sr., DEF), Sofia Papoutsis (so., DEF)
Top newcomer: Jessica Ortiz (jr., FOR)
Season outlook: One of West Aurora's best girls soccer teams ever is also one with a significant amount of varsity playing time left. The Blackhawks only have two seniors on the roster, defenders April Alvarez and Mariyah Zeitz. So a good way to get used to the 2017 Blackhawks is to start memorizing the 2016 roster. "We are young and we're going to experiment with them some this year. We're getting better every year. We're definitely building a program. We're getting the kids involved in the off-season with club soccer and I know there are some eighth-graders who are coming in next year who will really add to the program," Wagley said. As a cornerstone player, the Blackhawks have sophomore midfielder O'Brien, who works from penalty area to penalty area, covering many miles through a soccer match. "Her endurance is incredible," Wagley said. "She'll stop a ball on the 20 in our defensive end and then seconds later, she's up here in the attacking area ready to receive a pass. That helps her teammates a lot. They see her pushing hard and they want to play better."
Westminster Christian Coach: Erik Schwartz (5th year)
Conference: Northeastern Athletic
2015 record: 11-8, 5-0
Top returning athletes: Emily Lamp (jr., GK/D), Mattea Huerta (So, MF), Johanna Siers (so., D).
Top newcomers: Lexi Kuhlman (jr., F), Ella Gustafson (fr., MF), Kelly Frens (fr., F), Lilly Harbough (fr., MF).
Season outlook: The goal at Westminster is to repeat as a NAC champion. Last year's Warriors skated through the conference season unscathed with playmakers Whitney Woodhouse and Lindsey Vanden Bos while Savannah Dutcher held things down in goal. Without their services due to graduation, the Warriors will need a slew of freshmen to step up while Huerta will look to expand on her role after scoring 7 goals and 6 assists last season. "Mattea scored as many goals as she assisted last year," Schwartz said. "That tells you everything. She will look to score as well as give it to her teammates in the final third." Siers will play behind at sweeper to aid Lamp, who covers a lot of ground and is a safety valve for the Warriors, who will have instinctive sophomore goalie Elise VanNoord in place. But the Warriors will have to offset the graduation losses if they want to compete. "With a young team, this year is going to be less about individual talent and more about coming together as one team to pursue one vision, to serve the Lord through our play on the field," Schwartz said. "If we can play together and pursue the same vision, success will become a by-product."