The Shawnee State University Women's Soccer Team is coming its first season of competition in which they struggled to a 4-14 (1-10 AMC) final record.  The Bears were beset by injuries throughout their first campaign having only four players competing in every game.  Eight players return from a year ago.  All are injury free, and thanks to a rigorous off season work out schedule, all are in excellent condition. In addition to the returning players, the Bears have added 10 freshmen and a transfer.

The wealth of experience and the influx of new faces have 2nd year Coach Bryan Smith feeling very happy about this year's team.  "On paper we look very young (only 4 seniors and 3 juniors) but we are loaded with talent.  Last year we picked up some very good athletes to help us out with the injury situation.  This year we have soccer players. Every player on this team has the talent and ability to contribute, and I expect that they all will throughout the season."

The Bears' offensive attack looks strong as the top three scorers return from last years' squad.  Jenny Rudmann (Ironton, OH) led the team with 5 goals on the season.  Marseille Markham (Athens, OH) had 4 goals and two assists, while Brandy Dewar (Cincinnati, OH) had 2 goals and a team-leading 4 assists.  In addition to the returning players, Coach Smith is very excited about newcomer Amanda Duncan (Clarksville, OH).  "I look for Amanda to be the center of our attack.  She is an exceptional athlete, and really knows how to put the ball in the net."  Duncan scored 46 goals and dished out 26 assists in her four years at Clinton Massie High School.

The defense will live and die on the play of Candace Burton (Cincinnati, OH), Jessica Burkhart (Batavia, OH), and Jessica Votaw (Salem, OH.  "Candace has been with the team since it was a club sport.  She is the heart and soul of the team," said Smith.  "Jessica earned All-Conference honors as a freshman.  She should be even better with a year of college soccer under her belt."  Jessica Votaw will mind the net for the Bears this season.  She played four seasons for the United Local High School Boy's Team.  

"I can't wait to get the team in here this fall," said Coach Smith.  "With the talent we have this year I look for a very successful season.  I truly believe we will improve this season and finish in the top half of the conference.  Tiffin and Houghton are probably the favorites, but I think we can hang with just about anyone."

Shawnee State will open play on August 31 versus Kentucky Christian College.  Game time is 4:00 at the new Shawnee State University Soccer Complex.