Redshirt freshman midfielder Jessica White, 8, celebrates with sophomore forward Allyson Krause, 2, after a goal is scored during the game against Milwaukee, Aug. 25, 2013, at DeMartin Soccer Stadium. The Spartans defeated Milwaukee, 5-2. Danyelle Morrow/The State News
When it comes to injuries and lack of veterans on a sports team, there’s not much a coach can do, and MSU women’s soccer head coach Tom Saxton is finding that out early this season.
After the graduation of seven seniors and the transfer of then-junior and two-time All-Big Ten performer Annie Steinlage last season, Saxton was left with an abundance of youth. Just six upperclassmen returned to this year’s squad — tied with the 1988 team for the fewest in program history.
With 23 underclassmen, 13 of whom either are true freshman or redshirt-freshman, this might be a rebuilding season and a year to get the young players on the team valuable experience through trial by fire.
However, being one of the youngest teams in history hasn’t affected the morale of the team. Team leaders said the attitude and team chemistry is higher than previous years, and they hope it will lead them to accomplishing their goals: a Big Ten championship and a bid to the NCAA Tournament.
“This year, out of the four years I’ve been here, we have been the most close-knit I’ve ever seen,” senior defenseman and team captain Kelsey Mullen said. “Everyone just cares for each other and loves each other, and that just shows on the field. It doesn’t have to be about soccer.
“Showing that passion, you just know the person next to you, or in front of you, is going to work hard for you and for the team.”
Associate head coach Tammy Farnum said team chemistry is something most people underestimate, and she’s proud to see such a young team already so close.
“That’s something that can’t be coached,” Farnum said. “You can’t force it. You can’t have team meals and make the bond be created or be false.”
Now with junior midfielder/forward Lisa Vogel and junior forward Paige Wester sidelined with leg injuries for the near future, the abundance of youth will come into play even more. Saxton sees challenges ahead, but also sees promise.
“It helps in that we have a chance to grow as a team each and every game and build some continuity for the future,” Saxton said. “But our focus is on this season and the youth can be a challenge.
“We have had some youngsters already step up and get themselves in the playing group, and we need people that want to make a stamp on the game.”
With two victories in as many games, sophomores Allyson Krause and Rachel Van Poppelen, and redshirt freshman Jessica White all have contributed to the Spartan’s offensive attack.
In the victories against Buffalo and Milwaukee, White scored a goal in each game, Krause added a goal and assist, while Van Poppelen netted one and assisted two more goals.
“Though we’re young, I think we have some kids with some fantastic heart,” Farnum said. “It doesn’t matter what year you are, as long as you can step up in your moment and take charge.”
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