As the defending California Collegiate Athletic Association champions, the UCSD women’s soccer team has a lot to live up to. After winning seven of the last eight conference titles, the team was picked to win the CCAA in a preseason coaches’ poll.
Similarly, UCSD was ranked 18th in the nation by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America before a single game ball had been kicked.
High expectations aside, this year’s squad has generated a buzz by accelerating to an impressive 5-1 record.
With such a rich tradition of conference dominance, the Tritons hope to build on past success in 2009. Asked about her team’s aspirations for the new season, senior midfielder Alexia Zatarain put it simply: ‘To go to the final four and repeat as CCAA champions.’
Zatarain is the only senior on a team that has traditionally relied on a solid veteran core. However, sophomore forward Sarah McTigue has already been a major contributor for the Tritons and is an example of the younger Triton players who have stepped into productive roles.
With two goals and seven assists in her freshman season, McTigue finished the season tied for second on the team in scoring, with 11 points. As a result of her strong performance, she began the season as one of UCSD’s four captains.
UCSD started the year on a positive note, thanks in part to McTigue’s strong play.
In its season opener on Aug. 29 against Central Washington, McTigue gave UCSD a 2-1 victory with her game-winning score during double overtime, one of her team-high four goals of the season. McTigue also has eight points, tied for the team lead with freshman midfielder Jessica Wi.
‘It’s not ever about being the leading scorer,’ McTigue said. ‘It’s about going out there as a team, working together and trying to get a win.’
Head coach Brian McManus ‘mdash; now in his 23rd season at the helm and owner of the third highest winning percentage in NCAA women’s soccer history ‘mdash; sees a common denominator among McTigue, Wi, and the entire team, which he said will preserve the team’s success.
‘They all have good skills, excellent reading of the game and a desire to do well,’ McManus said.
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