To cut to the chase, Liberty girls soccer coach Andrew Uhler is looking forward to taking a big jump in the Hurricanes’ goal-scoring as well as winning matches this season.

“I don’t believe our record last season was indicative of our abilities, and our team is hungry to prove that,” Coach Uhler said. “We have a senior-laden team, and we hope to make a run at the playoffs this year with their leadership.”

Senior key returners are captain Sammi Donatelli (Defense), Irampaye Clarisse (Defense), Lindsey Heffernan (Midfield), Ariana Reid (Forward), along with junior returner Sophia Albino (Goalie), and sophomore Hannah Oliver (Midfileld).

“Our strengths are our quick passing and ability to utilize a team approach to success. We rely on each other to get the job done, not one or two players, which makes us incredibly versatile and dangerous,” said Uhler. “Our goalkeeper is one of the best around, and I believe she will play a large role in our success again this year. Current weaknesses are our occasional speed in transition, as well as ability to play out from the back.”

Key newcomers are sophomore Jazmine Cato (Forward), and freshmen Jalyn Reeves (Defense) and Megan Goodman (Forward).

“We spent a lot of time this summer learning new formations and tactics, as well as improving the speed at which we play the game. Team continuity was also a key factor, learning the ins and outs of each of our players,” said Uhler. “A heavy emphasis was placed in our strength and conditioning program, and St. Luke’s Strength and Conditioning coach Adam Sankovsky has done a great job of helping our players get stronger, more muscular, and more agile.”

The Hurricanes will have had a scrimmage on Aug. 30 at Salisbury for their first competition of the season, one that was limited last year due to COVID-19 restrictions on fall sports.

“I’m incredibly excited about the opportunity to travel and play a full schedule as are the girls. Seeing a variety of teams and styles of play will be a welcome change to only playing within our county,” Uhler said. “In our minds, more games is more opportunities to continue our growth.”