FORT FAIRFIELD, Maine — Tom Towle has a veteran group at his disposal as he begins his second season as head coach of the Tiger girls’ varsity soccer team.
So far, that experience has been evident as Fort Fairfield is off to a 4-0 start. The team has beaten Van Buren, Washburn, Central Aroostook and Southern Aroostook and is now getting ready for its match against East Grand tomorrow afternoon.
The squad’s biggest test is coming up very soon. The defending Class D state champion Ashland Hornets pay a visit for a match Sept. 15.
The Tigers return eight starters from a team that reached the regional semifinals a year ago, when they fell to the Hornets, 2-0, after recording earlier playoff wins over Bangor Christian and Washburn.
Towle said seven team members are seniors this year and “they all will be relied upon to help lead the team as we strive to improve upon our 2014 season accomplishments.”
All seven are part of Towle’s starting group. Chelsey Pelkey, who was an All-Eastern Maine choice last season, and Taylor Churchill were the leading goal scorers last year and will again be expected to serve that role as forwards. Morgann Towle also plays up front. Kayla Giberson, another All-Eastern Maine selection a year ago, helps anchor a defense that includes Autumn Parady. Alexis Coiley is a returnee at midfield, while Sarah Watt, who has prior experience in goal, takes over full time in place of Megan Jellison, who graduated.
Also gaining starting nods are sophomores Marissa Brouette and Kayla Tisdale on defense and juniors Kailanny Hernandez and Gracie Griffeth at midfield.
Brouette is also the back-up goalkeeper. Players coming off the bench are sophomore forward Emma Campbell, sophomore midfielder Jaydyn Fox, freshman midfielder Cassidy Coiley and freshman defender Emily Everitt.
With only 15 players on the roster, staying injury-free will be a necessity in order for Fort Fairfield to be a post-season threat. Coach Towle said steady progression throughout the fall and consistency on the field are other requirements for a positive year.
“The key to our success will be to improve on the little things that make all the difference as to how we play the game,” coach Towle said. “We must maintain our focus, play consistent throughout each game and practice each day with a committed purpose to continually improve in all areas of the game.”
