The Coral Shores High School varsity girls soccer team has potential for greatness, said Head Coach Pat Fazio. Even after a rough 0-3 season-opening loss against La Salle High School on Nov. 7, he said the team flashed brilliance a few times on free kicks and corner kicks, but was unable to capitalize.
The Lady Canes have 14 games scheduled this year, but Fazio said none is easy.
“That was by design. I scheduled them to face the best so they can develop and push themselves, always,” said Fazio.
Senior Lexi Gautier said, “I am excited for our game against Key West because I believe we are about even in skill level with them, and we have had a pretty big rivalry against them for quite some time now.”
Goalie Madeline Chilton expects some challenges, but says she’s looking forward to showcasing her improved skills against the girls from Marathon and Key West.
With strong midfield play and aggressive defending, Fazio said this year’s goal is to develop the potential of the young team.
“I think in the future we will be a very strong program, whether it be this year or next, but I think they have the talent to have it happen this year,” said Fazio.
The team is looking to build off last year’s winnings ways, having finished with 16 wins, 5 losses, and 1 draw. However, this year’s squad only has 6 returning players out of 19.
“It’s a rebuilding year, so I’m hoping we get some wins in, but mainly I think we just need to focus on gaining experience as a team and getting familiar,” said Kyla Catarineau.
The team is led by returning senior Gautier and recent Keys transplant, Alexis Rainwater, the only other senior on the team.
“My expectations for myself are to better my skills by allowing my team to guide me, but I also want to guide them,” said Rainwater. “I want to take my last year on the team and help build them up because ultimately they are the future team of Coral Shores.”
Fazio has also been impressed with the play of his group of sophomores, which he considers a strong class of players. Of the team’s six returning players, four are sophomores: Kyla Catarineau, Erin Rodberg, Mia Ruiz and Isabella Bolivar.
“We also have two freshman starters, Allie Adler and Emma Kost, that are very strong, so the future is looking good,” said Fazio. “Last year we had some injuries so a couple players were called up from JV and they instantly performed.”
The team is also welcoming back Emma Lovell who sat out last year due to an injury. Helping Fazio build the team are Assistant Coaches Erin Frye, Zane Albury, and Eric Kost. The Lady Canes soccer team will face Pine Crest Academy next, on Friday Nov. 17 at 5 p.m.
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The 2017-18 Coral Shores Varsity Girls Soccer team is working to build off the team’s winning ways. CONTRIBUTED
