When USF announced the formation of an intercollegiate women's soccer team last semester, Head Coach Erik Visser told the Foghorn, "We have lo be patient and build up the program slowly. We are five years behind most schools." With one season under their belt, the Dons soccer team has proved their coach correct. USF is behind other schools. However, as anyone who followed the Dons' inaugural season can attest, USF has made great strides in a short period of time, and looks to be even better in years to come. Despite a 2-11 record, and a ten-game losing streak in mid-season, Visser acknowledges the game-by-game improvement USF made. "People don't realize how much we have accomplished because we competed against established squads." Sophomore forward Joan Harrington echoed Visser's observations. "For a first year team, we did really well considering the competition." Harrington has etched her name in the USF history books by scoring the first goal in USF's brief history of women's soccer.
This year Shanna should be even more versatile and supply even more offensive power," said Visser. "I expect her to really take charge of the midfield area." Visser said he expects McLaughlin, entering her third USF season, "to stabilize the defensive part of our game." McLaughlin has been named captain of the Dons. Visser also looks for help from returnees Joan Harrington, Sarah Cowey and Sharon Breville, who "developed into one of our best defenders last year (TheFoghorn)."
