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Season Preview (WSoc): Pandas aim to repeat as Canada West champs

September 3, 2014

New Westminster, BC - All eyes are on Canada West this weekend when women's soccer kicks off on Friday, September 5, as the University of Alberta Pandas and the Trinity Western University Spartans attempt to defend their Canada West and CIS championships, respectively.

The Spartans will try to fend off the Victoria Vikes and the UBC Thunderbirds in the stacked Pacific Division, while the Calgary Dinos and the Saskatchewan Huskies aim to unseat the Pandas in the Prairies.

The Spartans, Vikes and Thunderbirds were voted as the top three teams in the preseason coaches' poll announced earlier.

Here is a closer look at the 16 teams battling for the Canada West crown.

PACIFIC DIVISION

UBC Thunderbirds

CW Preseason Coaches' Poll Ranking: 3rd overall, 3rd in Pacific

2013-14 CW Tournament Placing: 4th

2013-14 CIS Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 Conference Record: 8-1-3

Last CW Title: 2007

Last CIS Title: 2006

Key returnees: Jasmin Dhanda, Aman Shergill, Emily Wilson, Tamara Roughead, Taylor Shannik and Nicole Sydor

Key additions: Reetu Johal, Nadia Langenberg, Elizabeth Swoboda, Amrit berar

Key departures: Janine Frazao, Rachael Sawer, Taryn Lim, Christina Donnelly, Jordan Kitagawa and Alyssa Williamson

VANCOUVER – Head coach Andrea Neil returns for her second season at the helm of the UBC Thunderbirds women's soccer program, looking to build on a successful rookie campaign and bring the team to the national championships for the first time since 2010.

UBC lost just once in 12 regular season matches (8-1-3) in 2013 and eventually finished fourth at the Canada West championship tournament.
The 'Birds surrendered a league-low five goals last season and this year's defence will be anchored by Aman Shergill, a Second Team Canada West All-Star and the only UBC player to start all 12 regular season games in 2013. Emily Wilson takes over as the squad's No. 1 goalkeeper.
Fourth-year player Taylor Shannik returns as the team's most experienced midfielder. She's joined by third-year teammates Kym van Duynhoven and Madison Guy, the third and fourth-leading scorers for UBC last year. Another solid presence in the midfield is third-year player Tamara Roughead. They're joined by talented newcomer Reetu Johal, one of 10 new recruits brought in by Neil.
Up front, the returning forwards include reigning Canada West Rookie of the Year Jasmin Dhanda, who led the team with six goals in 2013, captain Shayla Chorney and Nicole Sydor. Janna Speed will also see time as a forward while new T-Birds include college transfer Amrit Berar and Emma Leese.
UBC Okanagan Heat

CW Preseason Coaches' Poll Ranking: 13th overall, 6th in Pacific

2013-14 CW Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 CIS Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 Conference Record: N/A

Last CW Title: N/A

Last CIS Title: N/A

Note: PACWEST Bronze medal in 2013-14

 Key returnees: M Marissa Klees, D Hayley Carlson, GK Christine Tallon, F Kirsten Dodds, M Michelle Smith, M Mairi Horth, M Paige Howes, D Justine Drosdovech

Key additions: GK Francessca Balletta, F Cassie Bratton, F Courtney Hemmerling, M Emma Nelsen, M Susan Traynor, D Jennifer Yamaoka

Key departures: D Jennifer Kidd, D Hayley Uyeyama, M Madeleine Greig, M Taylor Sarchet

KELOWNA – Claire Paterson has been coaching the UBC Okanagan Heat for the past six seasons and has her team ready for the challenge of Canada West play after four straight medals and a 40-18-19 record in the PACWEST.

Although losing a few key players from her medal winning 2013 squad coach Paterson has been able to lure a bevy of talented high schoolers to step in and bolster the roster. A well rounded recruiting class has Claire successfully searching everywhere for new players, grabbing talent from BC (6), Alberta (2) and even Ontario (1) and the Yukon (2).

To pair with her three-time CCAA Academic All Canadian defender, Hayley Carlson (4th yr, Red Deer, AB), Claire has added a pair of fullbacks in Jennifer Yamaoka (1st year, Kelowna, BC) and Jasmine Cooper (1st year, Salt Spring Island, BC). Third year Kelowna native Justine Drosdovech will add another veteran voice on the back line, while sophomores Katie Smillie (Delta, BC), and Rachel Parker (Lefroy, ON) will look to step up to more playing time this season.

If the back row slips up, fifth year senior Christine Tallon (Kamloops, BC) is a talented keeper who has delivered 10 shutouts in 18 games for UBC Okanagan over the past two seasons. Backing her up this season will be Francesca Balletta, a first year keeper from Burnaby who has trained at the Spartan Goalkeeper Academy.

Offensively the past few seasons the UBC Okanagan team has trouble scoring consistently but bring back fourth year forward Kirsten Dodds (Vernon, BC). Dodds has scored 11 goals in her first three regular seasons in Kelowna and will pressure opposing defenses in Canada West with her signature runs with the ball. Dodds won't just be a one-person show up front this season, as freshman Courtney Hemmerling (Kelowna, BC) has been impressive in the preseason scoring two goals for her new squad.

Another newcomer, Cassie Bratton (Calgary, AB), was a track star in Alberta and will be somebody to watch with her speed. Fellow freshman Tori Sanderson (London, ON) will be in the mix up front along with C.J. Murchie (3rd year, Calgary, AB) and Lana Finley (4th year, West Kelowna, BC).

Creating offense and chances for the Heat forwards will be a large group of midfielders, led by a pair of fifth years in Marissa Klees (Bellingham, WA) and Paige Howes (Kelowna, BC), who will take on more of a playmaking role. Michelle Smith (4th year, Vernon, BC), Mairi Horth (3rd year, Ladysmith, BC), Devon Fleming (2nd year, Burnaby, BC), all patrol the middle, but all three are also very capable of scoring a goal at any time. Smith has nine goals in her three previous seasons.

Newcomers to the midfield this year will be Camille Galloway (Whitehorse, YK), Emma Nelsen (N. Vancouver, BC), and Susan Traynor (Calgary, AB) will join Sarah Coghlin (2nd yr, Calgary, AB) to push the incumbents for playing time.

This group, led by the leadership of veteran coach Claire Paterson, look to make a waves in a very strong Canada West conference this year and open the season against another recent addition to the conference in the UNBC Timberwolves. First game in Prince George is Saturday September 6 at 12 p.m.

UFV Cascades

CW Preseason Coaches' Poll Ranking: 6th overall, 4th in Pacific

2013-14 CW Tournament Placing: Lost in Quarterfinal

2013-14 CIS Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 Conference Record: 5-4-3

Last CW Title: 2010

Last CIS Title: N/A

Key returnees: Kayla Klim, Carley Radomski, Jade Palm, Kara Delwo, Dayle Jeras, Tristan Cornea

Key additions: Monika Levarsky, Alexis Cattermole, Sara Miller, Avneet Bhullar, Megan Baird

Key departures: Danika Snook, Carly Neeson

ABBOTSFORD – The UFV Cascades enter this season with the deepest roster in their CIS history, as well as an extremely promising rookie class to integrate into the program. Under head coach Rob Giesbrecht, the team has obtained a winning record and a post-season berth in three of the last four campaigns, and are hoping to once again return to CIS Nationals (a feat they last accomplished in 2010).

The Cascades were eliminated from the playoffs last season in the Canada West quarterfinals, defeated by the Alberta Pandas 2-1 in a close contest. While such early exits have been the norm for UFV in the last few seasons, the Cascades have been a threat in each post-season game they've played. This year the roster is healthier, deeper, and more balanced than at any other point in the team's history, and hopefully this potential can translate into results on the pitch.
The Cascades are returning several key players, including third-year keeper Kayla Klim, who spent the summer training with the Seattle Sounders W-League team. New recruit Monika Levarsky, as a graduate of the prestigious Vancouver Whitecaps Girls Elite program, will also be making an impact for the UFV squad.
UNBC Timberwolves

CW Preseason Coaches' Poll Ranking: 14th overall, 7th in Pacific

2013-14 CW Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 CIS Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 Conference Record: 1-9-2

Last CW Title: N/A

Last CIS Title: N/A

Key Returnees: F Sidney Roy, F Sydney Hall, GK Jordan Hall, Katie M Blokker, M Jessica Erickson, D Fiona Raymond, D Tanya Grob, D Georgia Lahti, M Tianna Pius

Key additions: M Madison Emmond, M Kylie Erb, D MacKenzie Ricard, D Alena Carlile, M Anna Greenbaum

Key departures: M Jessica Manning

PRINCE GEORGE – The Timberwolves women's soccer program has made huge strides since their inaugural season in Canada West. Now with two full years under their belt, the women's team is looking to build on the momentum they gained near the end of their 2013 season.

Only one player from the Timberwolves starting lineup will not be returning leaving UNBC with a strong base to build on. Jessica Manning (Prince George, BC) will be the only starter not returning this season as she has been accepted to the Pharmacy Program at UBC starting in September.

Returning for the Timberwolves will be a strong core of second, third, and fourth year players. Rookie starters and local players from the 2013 season Jessica Erickson, Fiona Raymond, and Tianna Pius are all accepted to be back in the Timberwolves starting line up this season.

As the program builds the skill level of new recruits also increases. For UNBC this narrows the gap between the first 11 and the bench. Head coach Andy Cameron has brought in five recruits this season that should be able to make a significant contribution from the beginning.

The Timberwolves open their 2014 Canada West campaign at home against the UBC-Okanagan Heat. Kickoff is set for 2:15 p.m. both Saturday, September 6 and Sunday, September 7.

Thompson Rivers University WolfPack

CW Preseason Coaches' Poll Ranking: 12th overall, 5th in Pacific

2013-14 CW Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 CIS Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 Conference Record: N/A

Last CW Title: N/A

Last CIS Title: N/A

Note: PACWEST Gold medal in 2013-14

Key returnees: M Bronwyn Crawford, GK Emily Edmundson, M Marlie Rittinger

Key additions: D Christine Fergin, D Sarah Seebach

Key Departures: M Alanna Bekkering, D Laura Smylie

KAMLOOPS – The WolfPack were one of the most dominant teams in Canadian Collegiate Soccer the past five years. The three-time PACWEST champs are looking forward to moving to the Canada West with a core group of veterans returning.

Fifth-year players Bronwyn Crawford and Emily Edmundson are ready to lead the team into Canada West. Crawford was a Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association All-Canadian in 2013.

Jaydene Radu and Katie Sparrow are coming off strong seasons and should lead offensively along with Kelsey Martin. Taylor Miller has returned after a year away from school and will be counted on heavily to score.

Joining Crawford in the middle will be PACWEST all-star Marlie Rittinger.

Losses at the back end have prompted three-time PACWEST Coach of the Year Tom McManus to bring in a lot of new faces. Sarah Seebach has returned home after spending two years at Carleton University. She will play sweeper along with Jodi Hutton. Newcomer Christine Fergin is making a strong bid to start in her first season.

Edmundson has come into her final university training camp in strong shape and will have to be a force if the team wants to make the post season in their first Canada West campaign.

Trinity Western University Spartans

CW Preseason Coaches' Poll Ranking: 1st overall, 1st in Pacific

2013-14 CW Tournament Placing: 2nd (Silver)

2013-14 CIS Tournament Placing: 1st (Gold)

2013-14 Conference Record: 8-1-3

Last CW Title: 2012

Last CIS Title: 2013

Key returnees: D Jennifer Castillo, M Jenna Di Nunzio, F Krista Gommeringer, M Vanessa Kovacs, M Jessica King, D Christian Santema, M Stephanie Chin

Key additions: F Seina Kashima, D Amy Gartke, D/M Kathleen Chin, GK-RS Ally Williamson

Key departures: M Natalie Boyd, Alicia M Tesan, Colleen Webber D, G Rachel Cover, F Nikki Wright

LANGLEY - When the Spartans kick off their season this year, the reigning back-to-back CIS champions will be in search of Canadian history.
With five national championships in the program's history – four of which have come in the last six years – Trinity Western, which enters the year tied with UBC for the most women's soccer CIS titles, will be seeking an unprecedented sixth national crown. The Graham Roxburgh-coached Spartans are also aiming to become the first women's soccer team to capture three straight CIS championships.
While the Spartans will miss some key components from last year's side – most notably graduated midfielders Natalie Boyd and Alicia Tesan, defender Colleen Webber and goalie Rachel Bedek – the Spartans return seven starters from the 2013 national championship game, including a down-the-middle backbone that is as good as any team in the country.
Up front, the Spartans will be led by third-year striker and CIS Second Team All-Canadian Krista Gommeringer (Calgary). In her two years with TWU, she has scored more often than any other Canada West player, having tallied 23 goals in 24 games. Gommeringer will be joined by fourth-year Jessica King (Liverpool, England), who, as both a forward and midfielder, has developed into key component of the Spartans attack.
Directing the team from the middle of the park will be CIS First Team All-Canadian Vanessa Kovacs (North Delta, B.C.), who is in her fourth year with the Spartans. She'll be joined by Jenna Di Nunzio (North Delta), Stephanie Chin (Calgary) and, at times, King, to form an impressive midfield unit.
On the back line, fifth-year centre back Jennifer Castillo (Surrey, B.C.) completes TWU's down the middle core. The Canada West First Team All-Star has done a masterful job of securing the Spartans defence and will be a key cog in TWU's success. Castillo will be joined by fifth-year Kristen Santema (Coquitlam, B.C.) to form a dynamic duo down the middle.
The biggest question mark for the Spartans is in goal, where the team will see third-year Christina Oliverio and first-year keepers Rachel Sydor and Sophia Traxler battle for playing time. Canada West First Team All-Star and CIS Second Team All-Canadian Ally Williamson (Langley) joins TWU this year after transferring from UBC, but will sit out this year as per CIS transfer rules.
Beyond the Spartans returnees, Roxburgh, as per usual, has an impressive recruiting class arriving this fall, which will see first-year players like forward Seina Kashima (Burnaby, B.C.), defender Amy Gartke (Edmonton) and defender/midfielder Kathleen Chin (Calgary) all primed to make an immediate impact.
Since 2007, there have only been two teams that have won the CIS championship – Trinity Western (2008, 2009, 2012 and 2013) and Queen's (2010 and 2011). The Spartans are aiming to be the team to keep that run intact and, if they manage to do so, will make Canadian university history.
University of Victoria Vikes

CW Preseason Coaches' Poll Ranking: 2nd overall, 2nd in Pacific

2013-14 CW Tournament Placing: 3rd (Bronze)

2013-14 CIS Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 Conference Record: 10-2-0

Last CW Title: 2009

Last CIS Title: 2005

Key returnees: M Jaclyn Sawicki, M Carly Branion-Calles, F Emma Greig, D Mallory Hackett, D Cassie Dennis, D Elise Butler

Key additions: M Miranda Sakich, D Emily Stenerson, D Olivia Swinton, D Katie Carrothers

Key departures: GK Tanya Jones, M Lindsay Hoetzel, M Jackie Harrison, D Brigitte Greig

VICTORIA – Last year the University of Victoria Vikes women's soccer team had a near-perfect record in regular season play, going 10-2-0 to finish on top of the Canada West regular season standings. The Vikes hosted the conference Final Four and were forced to meet CIS defending champions Trinity Western in the semifinals. The Vikes lost 2-1 to the Spartans in a gold-medal worthy match-up, losing out on a spot at nationals, but found redemption defeating UBC for Canada West bronze. With four key players graduating, Vikes women's soccer head coach Tracy David will have to turn to her returning to core to guide her young squad in their 2014 campaign.
David, last year's Canada West Coach of the year, enters her 13th season at the helm and will return the talents of three-time Canada West All-Star Jaclyn Sawicki, as well as fourth-year Carly Branion-Calles, striker Emma Greig and defenders Mallory Hackett and Elise Butler. In addition, first-year Meaghan Storie will be expected to fill the shoes of graduating goalkeeper Tanya Jones.
In pre-season the Vikes had a scoreless draw with the Alberta Pandas, last year's CIS bronze medalists, a 2-2 draw with Langara College and a 2-1 loss to Seattle Pacific University. Fourth year Greig is the lone Vike to get on the board, tallying twice against Langara and once against Seattle Pacific.
David will use all the time available to her to fine tune her squad who will no doubt have a pair of tough match-ups hosting UBC and the two time defending champions, Trinity Western. The Vikes will host on Sept. 5-6 at Centennial Stadium. For more information visit govikesgo.com.
PRAIRIES DIVISION

University of Alberta Pandas

CW Preseason Coaches' Poll Ranking: 4th overall, 1st in Prairies

2013-14 CW Tournament Placing: 1st (Gold)

2013-14 CIS Tournament Placing: 3rd (Bronze)

2013-14 Conference Record: 9-1-2

Last CW Title: 2013

Last CIS Title: 2001

Key returnees: GK Kelti Biggs, M Annalise Schellenberg, S Julia Ignacio, S Jesse Candlish, D Rebecca Brandt, D Madeline Smith-Ackerl

Key additions: Mar Zacsko Maggie, GK Kailey Harder, Dr. Kozma Paige, SR McNutt Karissa

Key departures: D Shalla Kadima, M Laura Kautz, S Katie Wilkinson

EDMONTON – The University of Alberta Pandas soccer team enter the 2014 season as reigning Canada West champions. With 13 returning players, including five starters and the defending conference MVP, the Pandas are well placed to be playoff contenders once again.
Alberta earned a 9-1-2 record last season, in large part thanks to the second best offence in the conference, an offence that found the back of the opponent's net 34 times in 12 conference games. Coupled with just 10 goals against, Alberta was one of the best teams in CIS soccer last season. After racking up a 3-0 record in the Canada West playoffs, including the gold medal victory, the Pandas went on to earn CIS bronze at the national championship tournament in Toronto.
The Pandas will have to do without at least three key starters, however, including Canada West all-star and team captain Shalla Kadima, as well as midfielder Laura Kautz, who finished second in team points last season, and former NCAA striker Katie Wilkinson. Off-setting the losses are the return of 13 players from last season, five of whom were starters.
Starters from last season that are back in the fold for the Pandas this season are strikers Julia Ignacio and Jessie Candlish, goalie Kelti Biggs, midfielder Annalise Schellenberg, and defencemen Rebecca Brandt and Madeline Smith-Ackerl. Ignacio, the team's leading scorer last season and winner of the Canada West MVP award, is in her fifth and final season of eligibility, as are Biggs and Brandt.
Also back with the team this season are Terri Kutryk (S), Paula Dadensky (S), midfielders Jamie Pasemko, Sydney Ashton and Kristen Livingstone and defenders Jaala Derochie and Fallon Dickie.
Fourth-year midfielder Maggie Zacsko, a transfer from Grand Prairie Regional College, is one of the new players on the team that could step on the pitch and make an immediate impact.
The Pandas open their 2014 season at home when they take on the University of Calgary Dinos on September 6th (12:00 p.m.), and then Lethbridge Pronghorns the on September 7 (12:00 p.m.).

University of Calgary Dinos

CW Preseason Coaches' Poll Ranking: 5th overall, 2nd in Prairies

2013-14 CW Tournament Placing: Lost in Quarterfinal

2013-14 CIS Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 Conference Record: 6-4-2

Last CW Title: 2005

Last CIS Title: 1998

Key returnees: D Kira Lee, D Danielle Guidi, M Lauren Vernon, M Andrea Stinson, F Jordan Smith

Key additions: D Justine Chiba, F Maddison Fritze, M Maddy Lee

Key departures: M Tessa Miller, F Nikki Furukawa

CALGARY – To say the University of Calgary Dinos women's soccer team has same new faces is an understatement. A total of 15 recruits join the team this season, hoping to make their mark and help the Dinos reach the playoffs for a second year in a row.
"I think going into the season the goal is build on what we started last year," said head coach Troye Flannery. "I think we got off to a really good start last season and with the new division structure my goal would be to take this group back to the playoffs and introduce the new faces of the team what it takes to be at that standard."
In just his second season as head coach, Flannery's impact on the team was apparent last season when the Dinos went undefeated in the first six games. His team also made their way into the post-season after a four-year drought. He plans to build on the progress that the Dinos made with a combination of new and old players.
"Last year we were fantastic and I think this year we need to score some goals and keep playing attacking soccer. We've also added some quality defenders to the mix. Essentially what we've done is take last year's good core and rounded that out with 15 new faces that are primed and ready to go. We will attack, get after people, score some goals and hopefully keep it out of our net as well."
One thing that will need to be addressed is the loss of both Tessa Miller and Nikki Furukawa. Both players were the Dinos' top scorers last season.
"You can't replace Tessa and Nikki, however bringing in the recruiting class of 15 players is unparalleled at this level. We've done that and there's some young up and comers that I think will turn some heads and certainly do their best to step into the boots that Nikki and Tessa vacated."
Flannery also believes that the Dinos have a number of leaders to guide such a young group of players in their first CIS seasons.
"Our team captains Lauren Vernon and Daniella Guidi will be looked to be the leaders. It's my opinion that Lauren is the best player in the league. She does all the things that nobody else will do and has a keen soccer eye that notices all of the details. She'll be expected to be a leader on and off the field. We also have Andrea Nania who acts like a mother hen to these girls and Amy Hockings so we aren't short in the leadership department."
The Dinos will begin their season in Edmonton against the Alberta Pandas on Sept. 6 before heading back to Calgary to take on their cross-town rivals, the Mount Royal Cougars, the following day.
Their home opener will go down Sept. 14 against the MacEwan Griffins at noon on West Varsity Pitch.

University of Lethbridge Pronghorns

CW Preseason Coaches' Poll Ranking: 16th overall, 9th in Prairies

2013-14 CW Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 CIS Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 Conference Record: 0-10-2

Last CW Title: N/A

Last CIS Title: N/A

Key returnees: D Shannon Clark, D Keagan Moch, D Kim Shellenberg, M Step Groten, M Kayla Wurzer

Key additions: D Jensen Forbes, F Kayla Blacquiere, M Erica Augsten, D Aislinn Williston

Key departures: D Kayla Fisher, M Emily Felker

LETHBRIDGE – After spending the 2013 season at the bottom of the Canada West women's soccer standings, a veteran laced team returns for the 2014 season and sets their sights on ascension up the standings.
The 'Horns return 14 players from last season and have added both youth and experience in the five new additions for this season.
Following an injury redshirt season, Shannon Clark returns for her final season and will lead an experienced back line with fellow senior Keagan Moch and fourth-year standout Kim Shellenberg. Since her arrival six years ago, Clark has always been a key to the 'Horns defence.
The Horns defensive group received another boost this season with the return of local product Jensen Forbes. Forbes played 15 games as a freshman at the University of North Dakota before transferring back to her hometown.
After scoring the second fewest goals in the conference last season and being shutout six times in 12 games, the addition of college transfer Kayla Blacquiere should bolster the 'Horns attack with sophomore speedster Meaghan Welby and junior striker Danielle Lagemaat.
Last season with Red Deer College in the ACAC, Blacquiere scored eight goals in 10 games.
In the middle of the field, veterans Kayla Wurzer and Steph Groten will be heavily counted on to lead the 'Horns counter-attack.
The 'Horns open the season on the road, traveling to Mount Royal and University of Alberta during the first weekend of conference action before returning home for a Thursday night game versus the Calgary Dinos.

University of Manitoba Bisons

CW Preseason Coaches' Poll Ranking: 10th overall, 6th in Prairies

2013-14 CW Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 CIS Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 Conference Record: 1-7-4

Last CW Title: N/A

Last CIS Title: N/A

Key returnees: Chloe Schorr, Sarah Haikou, Elyce Molyneaux, Kayla Strang, Laura Stewart, Robyn Kastner, Emma MacLennan, Martina Arran, Megan Grace, Alyssa Robinson, Danielle Scerbo, Kayla Gagliardi

Key additions: Amanda Wong, Bruna Mavignier de Vasconcelos, Sara MacLennan, Jessie Harland, Jamila Calvez, Madison Wilford

Key departures: Gillian Sidon, Meagan Sparrow, Courtney Addison

WINNIPEG – In year of two of Bison women's head coach Vanessa Martinez Lagunas, the expectations and goals of the squad have increased as she had a fabulous recruiting class and was able to work with the team throughout a full off-season to prepare for the 2014 campaign.
The team goal is 'to make it to the playoffs' and the Bisons will have to compete against quality, tough opponents in the new Prairie Division where four of nine teams will qualify for the post-season. Martinez Lagunas felt there were three areas to improve from last year and is pleased with the results heading into the season. Fitness has been done through hard training in the off-season and a longer training camp; additional offensive power with emphasis on more shooting while working on game management as she had more time with the players in tactical drills and training in game situations.
The team returns 17 players from last season and led by second year captains and returning starting goalkeeper Chloe Werle and starting defender Sarah Haiko. The squad also has last season's team top goal scorers back with Daniella Scerbo (two goals), Elyce Molyneaux and Laura Stewart.
The team will have a larger roster with 36 as opposed to 26 players in 2013. Martinez Lagunas talked about a deeper roster to assist the Bisons through the grueling conference schedule where teams play back-to-back games on consecutive days and deal with long travel. In addition, the increase in external competitiveness will bolster the overall level of the team and there will 'battles at every position'.
The strong recruiting class should make an immediate impact. One of the top recruits in the country committed to Manitoba as forward/midfielder Amanda Wong, 18, was named as 2013 Manitoba Soccer Association Outstanding Youth Female Player of the Year. The 5'5" forward/midfielder amassed an impressive playing resume so far in her young career with high school, club accolades plus represented Manitoba at the 2013 Canada Summer Games, 2011 Western Canada Games and part of the provincial team from 2008-12. Forward Bruna Mavignier, 21, has played futsal at the club and high school level in Brazil and has already scored twice in pre-season action this year. Other newcomers include four recruits, all with National Development Centre (NDC) experience – a first for the program, are goalie Madison Wilford, fullback Sara MacLennan, defender Jessie Harland and forward Jamila Calvez.
Manitoba will start their conference season with the first three games at home and will see if the off-season changes will translate into a quick start to accomplish their team goal for 2014.
MacEwan University Griffins

CW Preseason Coaches' Poll Ranking: 11th overall, 7th in Prairies

2013-14 CW Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 CIS Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 Conference Record: N/A

Last CW Title: N/A

Last CIS Title: N/A

Key returnees: M Erika Vecchio, M Sheena Tracey, M Marlea Moroz, D Kayla Evans

Key additions: F Shaelan Donovan, D Kristyn Smart, F Jordan Cunningham

Key departures: F Maryse Beauregard, F Lindsay Butler, D Nicola Weber

EDMONTON – Navigating through uncharted waters, the MacEwan University Griffins women's soccer team take their maiden voyage in the Canada West league this season. Fresh off a national championship title in the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association, the Griffins have refocused their preparation efforts to reflect the necessary elevation in play. Poised to make an impact in their first season, they have set their sights on qualifying for the post season.

Returning 16 of 22 players from a year ago, the maroon and white retained several influential players including the core midfield partnership of Erika Vecchio (4th year, Edmonton, AB), Sheena Tracey (4th year, Edmonton, AB) and Jenny Lam (4th year, Edmonton, AB).

Despite the departure of several key offensive players, head coach Dean Cordeiro has replenished his forward lineup with notable recruits including the versatile Jordan Cunningham (1st year, Edmonton, AB) who participated as a member of Team Alberta at the 2014 Canada Summer Games, and Shealan Donovan (3rd year, Beaumont, AB) a speedy veteran who returns to the Griffins after a nine season hiatus.

Newcomers Charlotte Rath (Edmonton, AB) and Sapphire Kroetsch (Beaumont, AB) should also provide depth offensively and are expected to contend for meaningful minutes throughout the season.

Defensively, the team will make the transition from veteran to rookie leadership as Kristin Smart (1st year, Edmonton, AB) fills the void of offensive defender vacated by 2013 captain Nicola Weber. Also a member of Team Alberta's 2014 Canada Summer Games team, Smart brings sound fundaments on the defensive side of the game, while strategically willing to take chances offensively.

In net, the Griffins return two veterans who should continue to compete for the starting positon. Madison Perry (2nd year, Edmonton, AB) and Rebecca Reif (2nd year, Edmonton, AB) both bring experience to the positon and stability to the Griffins backfield.

Mount Royal University Cougars

CW Preseason Coaches' Poll Ranking: 9th overall, 5th in Prairies

2013-14 CW Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 CIS Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 Conference Record: 3-8-1

Last CW Title: N/A

Last CIS Title: N/A

Key returnees: M Kelsey Kinzer, F Karlee Hodler and Kristin D Deeks

Key additions: F Jolee Dangerfield, MF Hailey Lafave, MF Emily Sands, D Claire Thorimbert

Key departures: GK Kelsey Marklund, Kara Noel D, F Ashleigh Wroe

CALGARY – Three years into their Canada West journey the Cougars are finally primed for a push into the playoffs. In 2013-14, the Cougars posted three wins and hung in there with some of the top teams in the nation. They played the top teams from Victoria and Trinity Western very closely losing by only one and two goals respectively.

For the Cougars to make the next step they will have to starting filling the net. They only scored 10 goals in 12 games last season. Six of those goals were provided by their star midfielder Kelsey Kinzer who was a force down the middle of the field last season. Other marquee players Karlee Hodl and captain Kristin Deeks will be counted on to help carry the load this season.

The road to the playoffs will not be an easy one. The Cougars are in the hardest conference in the nation which includes the Trinity Western Spartans (national champions) and the Alberta Golden Bears (national bronze). The Cougars will have to bolster their offence and will need to steal a few points from the top teams if they want to move onto the elimination round.

The Cougars will open their season Saturday February 6th at 12:00pm versus the University of Lethbridge Pronghorns at MRU Stadium Field.

University of Regina Cougars

CW Preseason Coaches' Poll Ranking: 8th overall, 4th in Prairies

2013-14 CW Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 CIS Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 Conference Record: 5-5-2

Last CW Title: N/A

Last CIS Title: N/A

Key returnees: D Molly Glass, D Melanie King, D Racquel Marshall, G Kacey McFee, D Celia Michaud

Key additions: F Olivia Bolen, D Angela Lalonde, F Brianna Wright

Key departures: F Meagan Cormier, F Tayler Firth, M Jessica Meyer, GK Stephanie Possberg

REGINA – 2012 Canada West Coach of the Year Bob Maltman enters his eighth season as the head coach of the University of Regina Cougars women's soccer team, which looks to improve upon its 5-5-2 record from a year ago.

The Cougars, who qualified for the postseason for the second straight year in 2013, will lose two-time Canada West all-star and goal-scoring leader Meagan Cormier as well as clutch striker Tayler Firth, who holds the school record for career game-winning goals.

Leading the group of returning players is fifth-year veteran and team co-captain Molly Glass, who will move back to anchor the team's central defenders this season. The other co-captain also hails from Prince Albert and patrols the back line for the Cougars, as Racquel Marshall enters her fourth season of eligibility.

With Cormier and Firth graduated, Maltman expects both Veronica Boesch and Jayde McFee to play expanded roles for the Cougars up front. But a pair of rookies will also push for playing time, as both Brianna Wright and Olivia Bolen were productive for the U of R during the non-conference schedule.

The midfield will have a new look this year with Jessica Meyer gone and Glass moving to the back line. Karlee Vorrieter was heavily used as a second-year player last year and will play as an attacking midfielder this season, with Kayla McDonald, Adriana McCullough, and Shayla Kapila all expected to make significant contributions for the Cougars.

Joining Glass and Marshall on the back line will be second-year player Rachel Taylor, returning wing backs Celia Michaud and Anna Ogenchuk, and rookie Angela Lalonde.

The Cougars are to open their season on the road as they travel east for matches against the University of Manitoba Bisons and the University of Winnipeg Wesmen. Regina enters conference play with a 3-3-1 non-conference record, including a split against the Wesmen.

University of Saskatchewan Huskies

CW Preseason Coaches' Poll Ranking: 7th overall, 3rd in Prairies

2013-14 CW Tournament Placing: Lost in Quarterfinal

2013-14 CIS Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 Conference Record: 8-8-2

Last CW Title: N/A

Last CIS Title: N/A

Key returnees: Jenelle Zapski, Erica Hindmarsh, Megan Manson, Jen Miller, Cara Santaga

Key additions: Jasmine Crump, Kailee Webber, Julianne Labach

Key departures: Daniela Fuenzalida, Leanne Mylymok

SASKATOON – Under new leadership and in a new venue, the University of Saskatchewan women's soccer team will seek to take the next step in the Canada West postseason.

In 2014, the Huskies will make the transition to playing under co-head coaches Jerson Barandica-Hamilton and Janine Harding. Barandica-Hamilton was named the 2011 Canada West Men's Soccer MVP, while Harding was the Florida State MVP. Saskatchewan will also now play and train on the grass of Field 7 in PotashCorp Park.

Saskatchewan went undefeated in their first eight matches of the 2013 season and missed hosting duties in a conference quarter-final by one point for the second straight season. The Huskies were bounced from the playoffs after a 2-0 loss to the eventual CIS champion Trinity Western Spartans.

Now equipped with two years of postseason experience and a core roster returning, the Huskies feel a run at the Canada West Final Four tournament isn't out of reach.

"The new coaching staff is excited and ready for the 2014 season," said Barandica-Hamilton. "We are looking to build on the successes from the past few seasons. The staff feels confident with the mix of returning players and new additions that this team can be competitive in the tough Canada West women's soccer conference. We are eager for the season to start."

Saskatchewan returns Canada West all-star and leading scorer Jenelle Zapski to the roster. The third-year striker made an impact in 2013 recording seven goals and one assist. Also returning to help make an impact on offence will be midfielders Erica Hindmarsh and Kelly Cerkowniak.

Experience on the backline will be a strength for the Huskies in 2014. Third-year centre back Meagan Manson provides a steady, tall body, while fourth-year defenders Erica Parenteau and Carmen Gorlick played in nearly every game for the Huskies in their career. Cara Santaga will start for the team in net looking to follow up on her four shutouts from one season ago. Santaga went undefeated in eight games for the Huskies in 2013.

The Huskies open the Canada West season on the road against the University of Manitoba Bisons September 5. They return home on September 13-14 to face the Mount Royal Cougars and Alberta Pandas.

University of Winnipeg Wesmen

CW Preseason Coaches' Poll Ranking: 15th overall, 8th in Prairies

2013-14 CW Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 CIS Tournament Placing: N/A

2013-14 Conference Record: 1-11

Last CW Title: N/A

Last CIS Title: N/A

Key returnees: Taylor Thorkelsson, Laura Carroll, Danielle Comeau, Chelsea Kwasnicki, Serafina Trunzo, Carly Lomonaco, Kayla Jacobsen

Key additions: Inga Christianson, Alisa Caron, Danielle Bulloch, Janelle Comte

Key departures: N/A

WINNIPEG – After a tough 2013 season, the University of Winnipeg Wesmen Women's Soccer team has nowhere to go but up. The team had its struggles in posting a 1-11 record last year but first year head coach Amy Anderson has put new life into the team in preparation for the upcoming season.

Anderson will field a team with both great ability and leadership. Goalkeeper Taylor Thorkelsson returns for another year manning the net for the Wesmen. Fifth year players Serafina Trunzo and Kayla Jacobsen will be looked upon to provide solid play at both ends of the field in their final season with the team. Fourth year forward Chelsea Kwasnicki has been a goal a goal scoring machine in pre-season action scoring three goals in a pair of exhibition matches. Third year defender Laura Carroll will once again be called upon to provide steady play in the defensive zone. Second year midfielders Danielle Comeau and Carly Lomonaco each return to the team with one year experience under their belts and will be looked upon to provide even more this season.

The team will get an added boost by the return of defenders Danielle Bulloch and Janelle Comte. First year recruits Inga Christianson (WS Stars) and Alisa Caron (Bonivital Soccer) will each see plenty of field time and will look to take advantage of that opportunity.