Women's Soccer Eyes Season Opener
8/25/1999 12:00:00 AM | Women's Soccer
Aug. 25, 1999
EAST LANSING, Mich. - The Michigan State women's soccer team opens the 1999 season on Friday, Aug. 27, when it plays at Bowling Green State University starting at 4:00 p.m. Following the match against BGSU, the Spartan women booters make their home debut on Sunday, August 29, against Central Michigan starting at 1:00 p.m.
Under the watchful eye of head coach Tom Saxton, the Green and White concluded two-a-day sessions this afternoon (Wed.), and so far Saxton has been pleased with the effort that his players have given.
"This has been one of the finest preseason camps that we have had," Saxton said. "Our upperclassmen have set the tone for intense and productive practices. I've been pleased with the maturity and leadership demonstrated by our older players. After finishing with a losing record last year (6-12-2), I know that they have dedicated themselves to having a successful season. The play of Laura Montecillo (Troy), Melissa Jannetta (Birmingham) and Gina Dawson (Bloomfield Hills) has been especially noteworthy."
Bowling Green returns 17 letterwinners, including 10 starters, from last year's club that finished with an overall record of 8-11-1. The Falcons finished on a strong note in 1998, advancing to the semifinal round of the Mid-American Conference Tournament.
"This is a key game on Bowling Green's schedule and an important one for us as well because of our desire to get off to a good start," Saxton stated. "I can say that both teams are tired of playing against the same people day after day and are ready to get the season started."