While the women's soccer team disappointed with a 6-11-2 finish last season, this season's squad has the potential to be much brighter with an experienced group of players.

The sophomore corps, including defenseman Alec Spivak '15, midfielder Sapir Edalati '15, who received considerable playing time in their first year, looks to carry the team. They will especially be needed after the graduation of second team All-University Athletic Association midfielder Alanna Torre '12, defenseman Ali Theodore '12 and midfielder Mimi Theodore '12.

Head Coach Denise Dallamora was impressed with her squad's resolve and dedication during summer training.

"I am very pleased with everyone so far in our summer practices," she said.

Dallamora opted to alternate goalie Francine Kofinas '13 and then first-year goalie Michelle Savuto '15 in the net last season in light of a season-ending injury to Leah Sax '14. Kofinas allowed eight goals and recorded an 84.7 percent save percentage, while Savuto proved to be equally promising with 14 goals allowed and a 75.0 percent save percentage.

While Kofinas and Savuto will battle for playing time this season, Sax will be another name to add to the mix for the Judges.

Though forced to say goodbye to All-UAA Selection midfielder Fran Shin '12, All-UAA Second Team selection defenseman Allison Maresca '12 and defenseman Jessica Schulman '12, the defensive unit features several key returning players. After starting all 18 games last season and showcasing defensive prowess, defenseman Kelly Peterson '15 should anchor the group. Defenseman Corinne Bortniker '15 saw some time on the wings as a first-year and could be partnered by classmates Marissa Bello '15 or Jessica Peck '15.

Despite continuous shuffling in preseason, the Judges' strengths lie in their offensive attack. Midfielder Mary Shimko '14, who notched seven goals and 13 shots on goal in a full season, figures to be a notable presence in the center of the pitch. Fellow midfielder Maddy Stein '14 should also be a strong candidate to excel in the midfield. Midfielder Sapir Edalati '15 shined as a first-year, recording two goals and 11 shots on goal, and she should serve as a crucial part of the Judges' strategy.

Defenseman Alec Spivack '15 started in 15 games as a first-year, earning three assists and eight shots on goal. Midfielder/forward Alyssa Fenenbock '15 also displayed promise-her ability to play well with both feet is certainly an asset. Forward Emma Taylor '15 saw some time last year at striker and shows great potential.

The lingering question rests in the health of new transfer forward Dara Spital '15, who played for Division I University of Central Florida last season. Spital started two of the seven games she appeared in, where she recorded one assist on the season. Despite an injury-riddled season while at UCF, she looks to showcase her talents for the Judges in Division III.

In addition to always-challenging games against other teams in the UAA, in which the Judges went 0-6-1 last year, they will clash with Bates College and Bowdoin College. While the Judges lost to Bowdoin last year, they have triumphed against the Polar Bears the past three even-yeared meetings between the two teams. This could prove a pivotal game in the schedule that can provide a good measuring stick for the squad's success, given the New England Small College Athletic Conference is a strong collegiate soccer conference.

If the team wishes to succeed this year, Dallomara stated that the team needed to make improvements on both sides of the field.

"We need to make improvements on defense, winning 50/50 balls, and the ability to read plays on the field," she said.

The team kicks off its season in a road match against the Massachusetts Institute of Technology on Friday at 4 p.m.
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