First-year head coach Lauryn Pehanich says she is looking forward to the upcoming 2013 season and is optimistic about her team's prospects for a successful year.
The Leopards open their season Friday at home as they play host to Arizona Christian University.
La Verne will looking to reverse recent fortunes and are seeking its first top four conference finish since 2008. To do that, Pehanich believes that an adjustment in both consistency and direction will be the impetus for success.
"We know there are some very good teams in the SCIAC, but our focus will be on what we do and how we can grow and build on our confidence," she said.
La Verne will begin conference play on the road against Pomona-Pitzer on Sept. 18 followed by its SCIAC home opener against Claremont-Mudd-Scripps on Sept. 21.
The Leopards will be led by their quartet of captains which include senior midfielders Marisella Macias, Brianna Romero, Christine Camacho along with junior midfielder Jaime Weaver.
Macias was an All-Conference performer a year ago for the Leos and was the team's leading scorer in 2012. She registered a team-high eight goals along with two assists to total 18 points on the season.
"I believe the four captains have shown tremendous leadership and communication thus far," said Pehanich. "They've excelled in both areas on and off the field, and I'm excited for what they'll bring heading into the season."
A total of six returners for La Verne scored a goal last season. Three of the Leos' top four scorers from a year ago return.
Among the Leopard newcomers, Pehanich feels that fellow freshman Alexa Smith and Kyndall Taylor bring both athleticism and enthusiasm and are likely to make an early impact.
Part of the focus for the Leos, according to Pehanich, is to play a more cerebral brand of soccer throughout the season. "I don't just want us to play hard, but also to play smart," she said. "What smart soccer looks like can vary from game to game, but if we're willing to work hard and play together, we'll no doubt have success."
