Soccer Team Continues Preparation

August 15, 2006

Weatherford - The Southwestern Oklahoma State women’s soccer team continues its preparations for the 2006 season with the Bulldogs eager to build on last year’s improved effort when they open against St. Gregory’s University Thursday, Aug. 24 in Shawnee.

Sixth-year SWOSU coach Joe Bradley has assembled a large roster of 30 players who will likely make the Bulldogs ultra competitive in the Lone Star Conference. SWOSU, which finished last year with a 7-10-1 record, is expected to be one of several LSC teams that should battle for a playoff spot throughout the course of the season.

The positive finish of last year’s team and the impact of some highly regarded newcomers have the coach hopeful of a fast start that will build up steam before league play against defending champion Central Oklahoma on Tuesday, Aug. 29.

Currently in pre-season workouts, the Bulldogs are practicing on the field twice each day with both morning and evening sessions. The dual daily workouts have allowed the coaching staff to better evaluate and assess the different aspects of this year’s team.

“We’ve had a chance to see them play in some short-sided games and one-on-one situations,” Bradley said. “Now we are going to put some things together and work with the core group and go 11 on 11.”

SWOSU’s home opener is Sunday, Aug. 27 against Mesa State of Colorado at 1 p.m.