The Rossford varsity girls soccer team has been mired in a rebuilding period for a few years, but the 2022 squad may be a more experienced and athletic group than in recent years.

After last year’s team finished sixth in the Northern Buckeye Conference, Head Coach Mike Pierce, in his ninth season, believes his team is ready to compete.

“Our team goal is to finish higher in the league, and I think we have the opportunity to do that,” Pierce said.

He noted the Bulldogs are emphasizing individual goals to encourage improvement. “We’re concentrating on individual goals so they have something to strive for,” he added.

Pierce expects that his key returners along with several newcomers–including some dual sport athletes–mean that the Bulldogs should prove competitive in the league.

Returning will be a pair of seniors, Allie and Abbie Misko, both providing necessary leadership.

The team brings back two juniors, Alyssa Cox and Mallory Bartley, who will play defense and midfield, respectively.

Sophomore Maddie Kutscher resumes as the goal-tender and should be much improved between the pipes.

Pierce is optimistic about this core group. “They’ve been around the program for awhile. They have experience and knowledge of the game. They will be able to help the younger players and their development,” he explained.

Pierce also mentioned that incoming freshman Camryn Almester should contribute right away. Despite her youth, Pierce said she has played soccer for several years and should shore up the center defense position.

To be successful, the coach predicts that team chemistry and team mentality will be vital.

“We have several dual sport athletes, so some of the girls won’t be there all the time. We will need to mesh together and adapt to situations. Many of them will need to play different positions, and they will need to work together. If they work on the mental aspects of the game, I think that we’ll be successful.”

The Bulldogs took the field for their first game August 20 when they entertained the Wauseon Indians.