By Jon Gulliver
Special to the Aroostook Republican
CARIBOU — The Caribou Lady Vikings soccer team had an incredible run in Class B last year, making it all the way to the state title game against Falmouth. The Vikings were on the wrong end of a 1-0 score. Eleven players are back from that squad and are again looking to go deep into the postseason.
jMavor photography photo
Olivia Sleeper’s goal with 1:18 remaining broke a one-all tie with Madawaska to help Caribou to a 2-1 win in their season opener.
Senior Morgan Swan is back in goal for Caribou. Last year she only allowed 15 goals in 18 games. She was also a first-team all-PVC selection. Junior Olivia Sleeper tallied 16 goals and four assists last year and also was a first-team all-PVC choice. Senior Jamie Martin was a second-team all-PVC selection. Senior Paige Small received PVC honorable mention.
Others expected to get significant playing time include seniors Katie Keaton, Sarae Sager and Samantha Murchison; juniors Kendra Stephens, Katelynn Tardie and Hannah Hebert. Rounding out the team are senior Erin Madore, juniors Reanna Plourde, Alissa Randolph, Haley Hunter and Regan Buck; sophomores Delaney Williams and Clara Collins and freshman Sarah Doak. The managers are Demarre Doody-Corriveau, Ginger Kieffer and Tori Degenhardt.
Although Caribou has experience back with several seniors and juniors, the loss of some key components from last year’s team will need to be addressed. The school’s all-time leading scorer Jenna Selander and Lydia Kieffer, another four-year starter, have graduated. Also lost to graduation were Jessica Zbylut, Laura and Kayla Collins and Madison Outing.
Coach Todd Albert is entering his eleventh year as coach of the Vikings. He stresses discipline and getting the most out of the team.
“I like the girls to be able to play multiple positions and feel comfortable in different formations,” he said.
He also said the girls are ready to play. “The team began the year in better condition than any of the past years, and that should help later in games.”
Caribou will once again play some tough competition, which starts with Presque Isle. Coach Albert also pointed to games with Hermon, Ellsworth, John Bapst and Fort Kent, which will determine where his team finishes in the rankings.
“In soccer anyone can beat anyone on any given day, so we must always be ready to get everyone’s best shot,” he said. “Our key to be successful will be determined by how we are able to finish our scoring chances. Equally important will be the team defense and trying to limit opponent opportunities.
