August 26, 2008
2008 Women's Soccer Preview
USA South Champions return to defend their title

FAYETTEVILLE, NC- Last season the Methodist women's soccer team won their second consecutive USA South Championship and went on to claim the program's first conference tournament championship with a 1-0 victory over Christopher Newport. Head coach Tony Tommasi welcomed the team back to campus earlier this month to prepare for what he hopes will be another successful season.

Eleven players return from the 2007 championship team, a strong nucleus to build around as the team moves forward this season. "We return several important players from last year's team that will continue to be the foundation of our success," Tommasi said.

The Monarchs will need to replace four seniors from last season including Methodist's all-time leading goal scorer, Chrystal Bradley. Bradley has moved to the bench as an assistant coach and will look to help Tommasi mold the new class of freshmen. All of the freshmen are expected to contribute this season.

After earning the automatic bid to the NCAA tournament, Methodist faced Roanoke in the first round but lost 3-1. "Although an incredible season by record (17-5) and accomplishments, the loss in the NCAA tournament still has us hungry," Tommasi said.

The USA South coaches voted Methodist number one in the conference's preseason poll and the Monarchs hope to make it come true. "Every team in the USA South has gotten better, and the 'bulls-eye' on our back has gotten bigger," Tommasi said. "We will not run from the challenges ahead or take anyone for granted."

The team has worked hard during preseason to prepare for the first game. Methodist will compete in the Emory Invitational kicking off Friday at 5 pm against Spelman before facing the host, Emory, on Saturday at 8:30 pm.