Since coming to Utah eight years ago, coach Rich Manning has built the Ute soccer program into a solid, consistent winner.
Last year was a hiccup for the Utes, who had a losing record most of the year, before coming through in Mountain West Conference play and making the finals of the MWC tournament. However for the second straight year, the Utes failed to make the NCAA Tournament, only the second time in Manning's tenure that has happened.
With several top players back from last year and some talented newcomers on the team, the Utes are looking to challenge for the MWC title and earn another NCAA berth this season.
"I've been very pleased so far," said Manning. "This is a good group with a good spirit and hunger. I like our team speed, and our athleticism got better."
The Utes kick off the season Friday night against Utah Valley at Ute Field. Then they travel to Cal State Fullerton Sunday afternoon. The following week they host traditional national power Santa Clara and also play at UCLA and Oklahoma State this year.
Leading the way for the Utes is senior midfielder Kelly Isleib, a four-year starter from Park City who led the team with six goals and 18 points last year.
Up front, the Utes will count on Lauren Hair, who had five goals and 11 points last year and Erin Dalley, who sat out last year with an injury.
On the back line, the Utes will have Lauren Porter, who started 21 games as freshman and was a second-team all-MWC selection, along with Morgan Skeen.
Among the freshmen, Manning expects Hanna Terry, a forward from Park City, and Allie Wisner, a midfielder from Montana, to see a lot of time on the field.
In goal, the Utes have sophomore Hannah Turpen, who compiled a 5-1 mark as the starting goalkeeper allowing just 0.66 goals per game with 14 saves. Emalee Rogers, who started 17 games and went 6-8-2 with 64 saves, will also see a lot of action.
"I want this team to play together, be difficult to score on and play with confidence and aggressiveness on the attack," Manning said. "If we can do those three things consistently, that I feel we will have a very successful season."
Utah was picked to finish second in the MWC preseason coaches poll behind BYU. The Utes will play the Cougars Oct. 3 in Provo to kick off the MWC season. Utah will also play Utah State on Sept. 24 at Rio Tinto Stadium.
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