Seasoned Girls Soccer Team Hopes for Postseason Run

Despite a gritty effort, the Wilmington girls soccer team’s stay in the postseason didn’t last long in 2011. With a host of returning players from that team, the Lady Wildcats are hoping to stay around a bit longer this time around.

Wilmington, which in the first round last year, has 18 players who return this season.

“We have a lot of experience, and hopefully we can use that to our advantage,” said Wildcat head coach Sue Hendee. “I think a tough loss like that makes you want to come back for more the next year. These kids are hungry. They worked hard in the offseason and they want to take their success a step further.”

On Wednesday the Wildcats got their season kicked off with a 2-1 victory over Woburn. Ashleigh Howland scored both goals for Wilmington, which controlled possession for most of the game.

In addition to the long list of returning players at Hendee’s disposal, there are also five freshmen who figure to contribute as well.

Goalkeepers Kim Woods and Kellie Souza are expected to split time in between the pipes, and Hendee says she feels confident with either player getting the start.

Midfielder Holly Niemiec, defenseman Lauren McKenna and forward Jackie Kennedy are the team captains for this year’s Wildcat squad.

Though Hendee said it’s a challenge playing in the Middlesex League, but her team is even more prepared for that task after its successful entry into the league last year.

“We just have to take every game very seriously,” said Hendee. “Even the teams that aren’t as well suited for the league play you tough. We feel comfortable after last year. Last season we were just trying to feel our way through it. Now we have a better feeling for the league and we’re confident going in.”