By Ethan Moore, Sports Editor.
After losing a heartbreaker game in Orchard Park, NY, it’s easy for the Lady Pioneers soccer team to feel a bit let down.
“I think not making it to the National Tournament left an empty spot in each of us as a team. After a long career of coaching, you certainly realize that the outcome of a game can sometimes be out of your control. It should and will not diminish the accomplishments of this team,” says Co-Head Coach Paul Stenglein.
The Lady Pioneers finished the year at 10-4 and 7-3 in conference play. The year was highlighted by a six game winning streak, in which the team only gave up two goals.
“One of the areas that the team really excelled at was continually improving on defensive pressure. As the season progressed, it was more and more difficult for our opponents to score on us.” says Stenglein.
Standout players for the year include Forward Paige Renshaw, leading the team in scoring with 9 goals, and Goal Keeper Ali Bourcier, who went 4-4 with five shutouts.
“I think that our Captains did an excellent job on leading the team. Returning sophomores stepped up and played like mature leaders. They helped to freshman grow into confident players throughout the season.” says Stenglein.
The season was a major step forward for the program from last year’s 8-8 campaign, and a lot of that has to do with the freshman players.
“I commend our freshman for coming into our program and accept different ideas than they may have been accustomed to in the past. They were eager to learn and apply their skills to make the team stronger. I am proud of each and every one of them.” says Stenglein.
Even though the team did not end the season on top, Stenglein explains that the personal impact they had may be more important.
“They touched my life, and made me a better coach and person. These are my Delta Daughters,” says Stenglein.
