2010 Season Preview

Veteran Squad Poised for Deep Playoff Run

Purchase, NY (Aug. 27, 2010) – Women’s soccer rebounded in a big way last fall, reaching the conference semifinals and clinching a spot in the prestigious Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) Tournament.

This fall, there’s even more reason to believe that the Panthers could go further. With new head coach Matt Weston now at the helm, replacing Ken Pollard, and a veteran group headlined by star junior defender Ashley Panepinto, there’s no telling how deep this year’s squad could go. Add in midfielder Abigail Katz, who like Panepinto was named to the All-Skyline team in 2009, and senior returnees Jessica DiFoggio and Stephanie Janasiewicz, both of whom have been named captain for the 2010 campaign, and you’re looking at a very strong nucleus, says Weston.

[Pictured above: STANDOUT ASHLEY PANEPINTO GARNERED ALL-SKYLINE 1ST TEAM HONORS IN 2009. -Photo by Oren Vourman] 

“Jess and Steph are both respected within the group and will provide leadership both on and off the field,” Weston explained. “We have six seniors on the roster, adding valuable experience and continuity from 2009.”

Weston, who joins Purchase following several coaching stints and a long pro career in the sport dating back to 1986, where he spent four years with the Manchester United Academy of Excellence, is also impressed by returnees Veronica Slattery, Carly Turow and Marisa Corson. “Corson has an eye for the goal & the ability to go past players. Slattery has the ability to unlock defenses, with the quality of her passing and Turow has an eye for goal and the physique to trouble opposing defenders.” 

Freshman Kristen Raccaniello could see time in goal, splitting work with Janasiewicz, who may also see time in the field. “She has done very well in pre-season and will learn under the experience and leadership of Janasiewicz.”

Alyse LaPadula also joins the women’s soccer team this fall. The basketball standout has “adapted to the game very quickly and could prove to be a great addition,” Weston noted. The Panthers are also expecting a midseason boost with the return of Amanda Capone from injury.  

The new coach called the early pre-season a “huge success,” adding that he and the team are very excited to get rolling. 

The Panthers open Friday, Sept. 3 at home against John Jay College at 3:30 p.m.

“Although we have a small roster, we have experience and togetherness within the group, which will prove vital this season,” Weston said.

-Bobby Ciafardini, SID

2010 Recaps: Coming Soon 

2010 News: Coming Soon