Published in the September 10, 2015 edition
GIRLS SOCCER COACH Sean Killeen addresses the troops at practice. (Bob Turosz Photo)
By DAN NUNN
NORTH READING — With plenty of talent returning from last season’s Cinderella run to the Division 3 North soccer finals, the Lady Hornets are poised to have a successful 2015 campaign.
“Our returning depth is our greatest strength,” said head Coach Sean Killeen, adding, “We only graduated five seniors and have a lot of players returning with varsity experience. I hope that the shared success of last season will continue to motivate the returning players.”
North Reading returns 15 varsity contributors from last season. Seniors Jillian Comeau, Marina Govostes, Jordan Schille, Madison Syer, Anna Tayas, Katie Welch, juniors Katerina Hassapis, Giana Moscaritolo, Jessica Muise, Haley Nathan, Marissa Zarella, Kristina Copelas and sophomores Meredith Griffin, Rachel Hill and Juliette Nadeau all return to the fold.
Tri-captains named
Jillian Comeau, Jordan Schille and Katie Welch have shown great leadership and will serve as tri-captains this season.
Beyond the captains there is also plenty leadership on defense. Returning CAL All-League goalie Katerina Hassapis, Jessica Muise and Giana Moscaritolo will anchor the defensive third.
‘Every game will be competitive’
The Hornets will need to use their experience to navigate the always tough Cape Ann League. Killeen commented, “The CAL is highly competitive and we start right off the bat with Masco, Newburyport and Lynnfield, who ended our tournament run in the North finals. To be honest every game will be competitive.”
Even with the tough schedule Coach Killeen expects an exciting season and to compete for a league title. “The CAL title is an item on our list. There are many items that have a higher priority, but if we are successful managing our expectations, the CAL title will be part of the conversation.”
Open season on the road
The Lady Hornets opened the season with two road games. They traveled to Masconomet yesterday (Sept. 9) after press time. On Friday, Sept. 11, they will travel to Newburyport for a 3:45 p.m. start.
The team’s home opener is next Wednesday, Sept. 16 at 4:30 p.m. against the Pentucket Sachems at Arthur J. Kenney Field.
