Led by first-year head coach Linus Rhode, the Oregon State women’s soccer team began preparation for the 2008 season on Thursday as the Beavers took to the practice field for the first time. The Beavers will continue the two-a-day sessions until Monday, August 18, when Oregon State hosts Trinity Western in an exhibition contest at 7:00 p.m.
“Obviously, I think everyone is excited to get on the field and get the season started,” Rhode said. “We have a big group of newcomers coming in so the first few sessions are going to be spent getting a feel for one another and to see where everyone stands.”
Oregon State, which features 10 newcomers, returns six starters and 12 letter-winners from last year’s squad that finished with a record of 7-10-3 on the season.
Junior midfielder Najma Homidi leads all returning scorers for the Beavers after posting four goals and nine points during her sophomore season.
Junior Rachael Axon, who led the team with six assists last year, also returns for Oregon State as the midfielder finished the 2007 season tied for third on the squad with eight points along with returnees Melissa Peck and Red Nixon.
Each goalie who saw action in net for the Beavers last season come back as well as Oregon State will have an experienced group of goaltenders to choose from for the 2008 campaign. Junior Ashley Wood posted two shutouts last season before suffering a season-ending knee injury as junior Caitlin Seeley filled in during Pac-10 Conference play, recording 54 saves in net in 10 games of action.
Following the exhibition match with Trinity Western, Oregon State will open the 2008 season against Portland State as the Beavers host the Vikings on Friday, August 22, at 7:00 p.m.
-OSU Sports Information
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