2008 Simpson College Women's Soccer Preview
Here is a look at the Storm by position;
FORWARD: Junior Kellie Whitney led Simpson in points (16), goals (7), and shots (36) in 2007. She went on to sweep the triple jump at both the Iowa Conference indoor and outdoor track and field championships as well. Senior Alyssa Stoll returns after suffering a torn ACL last season. Stoll has scored nine goals, collected five assists for a total of 23 points thus far in her Storm soccer career.
The Storm will be looking to three freshman Megan Ginsberg (Iowa City West H.S.), Katherine Bird (Iowa City H.S.) and Natalie Erhardt (Waverly-Shell Rock H.S.) to compete for heavy minutes as well as production this season.
"Our depth this year will be much improved from last year," said Simpson Head Coach Cory Chapman. "Alyssa's healthy again which will help as well as the three freshmen we brought in, will give us much needed depth. All five along with returner Stefani Egnell will give us depth at the striker position which we have not had. The competition for minutes will increase which can only help our program get stronger up front."
MIDFIELDERS: Junior Mollie McMahon led Simpson in shots (37) in 2007. McMahon finished second on the team in points (8) and goals (3). McMahon started every match for the Storm and is looking to have a strong junior season. Junior Erin Vinnedge was third on the team in point (5), goals (2), and shots (22) in 2007.
"Erin really had a very good season last year and didn't get as much recognition as she deserved," Chapman said. "She rededicated herself and came into camp in great shape and really was one of the most consistent players we had last season. We need her to continue being a leader not only in the middle but off the field as well."
Sophomore Megan Berlin also saw time as a true freshman last season, appearing in 14 matches. The Storm added two quality freshmen to the lineup this season in the midfield. Nicole Dillenburg (Urbandale H.S.) and Dani Rondeau (Iowa City West H.S.) will bring talent, athleticism, and competitiveness to the Storm this season.
"Nicole is a talented outside midfielder who can really play three positions," Chapman said. "She's had an outstanding high school and club career and we're excited about having her join our program. Dani is also a true talent from Iowa City. Her size, athleticism and knowledge of the game will be big assets to our program. We're looking for her to be a ball winner and balance our midfield."
DEFENDERS: Junior Heather Akes, a two- time All Iowa Conference, selection returns to the Storm for her junior season. Akes was chosen second team All-Conference last season for her strong play in the back. Akes took more chances in the offensive end last season which resulted in two goals totaling four points.
"Heather will have to stay healthy for her to have another successful season," said Chapman. "We're hoping to get her more into the attack once again this season if at all possible."
Senior Johnna Kripal is a three-year letter winner and starter for the Storm. She competed in all 15 matches last season scoring one goal, recording one assist for a total of three points.
"Johnna has been the most consistent player we've had over the course of her career at Simpson," Chapman said. "Not only has she been solid on the field, but her attitude, work ethic and academics are all extremely strong as well. She's moving to a new position in the back this season so there will be an adjustment period for her, but the coaching staff is confident she'll be up to the challenge."
The Storm have brought in two quality players to strengthen the back line. Lea Scaletta (Waukee H.S.) and Casey Becker (Davenport Assumption H.S.) will both compete for a starting spot in the back.
"If we can stay healthy in the back and get everyone on the same page, we'll have a solid back three with a great goalkeeper behind them," said Chapman. "I'm hoping to improve on our goals against average this season and collect shutouts along the way."
GOALKEEPER: Senior Whitney Franker arguably one of the best in the state of Iowa at any level, returns for her senior season. Franker has started every match in her Storm career and collected a 1.79 GAA last season. Franker has increased her school record for shutouts in a career with 16 and looks to add to that total this season. Franker is a standout two sport athlete, earning 1st team All Conference recognition last season with the Storm women's basketball program which advanced to the Sweet 16.
"I'm excited to see her complete her career between the posts," said Chapman. "She's been great to work with and should have another strong season."