If the saying ‘there is no substitute for experience? is true, then the Goodrich varsity girls soccer team is in good shape.
Last year, the Martians won their district championship before losing 3-1 to Flint Powers in the opening round of regionals. The Martians have seven seniors and eight juniors to form the core of this year’s team.
This year’s seniors are Amber Beard, Amanda Bishop, Hayley Smith, Amy Kovas, Lindsey Hempton, Courtney Bernard, and Jessica Merchberger.
Meanwhile, the junior class is comprised of Natalie Cook, Meredith Mayberry, Jessica Engler, Ali Smith, Meg Holt, Jillian Zirnhelt, Shannon Kot, and Amy Ramiller. They are joined on the varsity by sophomore Cassie Shepherd, a transfer student from Brandon.
Goodrich coach Nigel Barnett said the Martians? experience should pay dividends for them this season.
‘We’ve always been a good young team, now we have depth all the way through,? he said.
Barnett said Goodrich fans should expect a change in the team’s style of play.
‘We’re going to implement a much more open game, with more fluid movement and attacking up front,? he said.
Barnett also said playing such a style requires a combination of speed, strength, and footwork.
‘When it all comes together, I think they’ll be ready to take on more responsibility and play a more complete game,? he said of the Martians.
The Martians, who play in the Saginaw Valley Association, will face tough competition from Frankenmuth and Saginaw Nouvel in league play, Barnett said.
The Martians open their season April 12 when they host Caro. They are scheduled to play in three tournaments this season: April 21 at Lapeer East, May 7 at Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, and May 14 at Petoskey.
Barnett said the Martians will benefit greatly from taking part in all three tournaments.