After a disappointing 6-11-1 record in the 2009-2010 season, the University of Tampa Women’s Soccer team went 16-5-2 this season.
The team was on an eight-game unbeaten streak until they lost in dramatic fashion to Florida Tech in penalty kicks despite out-shooting the Panthers 17-9 in the South Regional Final.
Coach Gerry Lucey was saddened that the season ended the way it did.
“It really hurt losing to them after we had already beaten them twice, even though it took overtime both times. We know we are the better team, and we would beat both teams that advanced nine out of ten times each,” he said.
Although the season is over, Lucey was very pleased with the team’s performance this year.
“We grew and progressed as a team, and got a lot better in time. The girls trusted and believed in the system, and believed in themselves,” he explained.
The team’s confidence grew exceptionally, after tying defending national champion Grand Valley University 1-1 in a preseason match.
“Even though it was a preseason match, that game did wonders for our confidence. “We knew we were good enough to contend for a title right then and there,” Lucey said.
The team was able to get ten more wins than they did last year, and was a serious contender for the NCAA Championship, after winning the SSC Championship.
Lucey credited the change in record to an improvement in defense and goaltending.
“We had basically the same offensive stats as last year, but our goal keeping and defense were much better this year. Attack is important, but defense wins championships,” Lucey said.
The team stressed defense and goaltending this year, but their primary focus was on academics.
The team earned an NSCAA Academic Award due to their average GPA of above 3.0.
Coach Lucey lets the team know early that academics must be taken very seriously.
“We have a strict policy about missing classes. If it happens once it doesn’t matter who you are, there will be consequences,” Lucey said.
After some positive strides this season, the women’s soccer team promises to work even harder next year and continue working toward the ultimate goal; getting to the Final Four, and winning the National Championship.
With only three seniors leaving, and a plethora of returning soon-to-be sophomores, the Spartans will welcome back nearly the entire core of the team.
The future looks bright for the young, experienced group and they are looking forward to working hard in the spring both tactically, and athletically, in order to prepare for the next season.
John Hilsenroth can be reached at jhilsenroth@spartans.ut.edu.