By Sarah Greenberg

Expectations are high surrounding Penn State Altoona Women’s Soccer.  After a successful 2008 campaign, the reigning undefeated AMCC champions expect to continue their intense level of play as they look to surpass last year’s tremendous accomplishments.  With a “team first” mentality and a strong sense of pride, the women hope to prove themselves once again this season.

The newcomers to the squad, comprised of two transfers and 10 freshmen, are expected to provide the team with the most depth and versatility the program has ever seen.  This depth will be tested sooner rather than later, as offseason injuries have temporarily sidelined several players.  But despite these injuries, the team expects its roster to recover to full health as the season progresses.

Returning player Emily Reimold (Shrewsbury, PA/Susquehannock), who set a single-season team record for goals with 19, is predicted to have another strong season.  Reimold will have plenty of help from other players capable of providing solid performances on the field.  Along with pure skill, Coach Tim Wassell says that the potent attack of the offense has many dynamic personalities that should make for great opportunities.

The defense is also expected to have another tremendous year with sophomore Meredith Barcia (New Canaan, CT/New Canaan) and senior Kelly White (West Chester, PA/Villa Maria Academy) returning from last year’s backline, which was third in the country in goals against average. Sophomore Lindsay Raspanti (Fairless Hills, PA/Pennsbury), one of the top goal keepers in the region, returns to her position after 14 shutouts last season.

This season, the Lady Lions foresee their toughest conference challenges to come from Frostburg State and Penn State–Behrend, but also hope to prove themselves against other competitors throughout league play.  By working hard and constantly improving throughout the fall, the team’s goal is to be playing its best soccer by playoff time, putting them in position to exceed last year’s achievements.