Coker Women's Soccer Ready to Break Out

HARTSVILLE, S.C. – Dan Muns admittedly had a tough time sleeping at the end of last season. His first year at Coker didn't go according to plan. This year, though, he's hoping for a whole different story.

"We have a great group of returners and a terrific recruiting class that joins them," Muns said. "We're excited about the direction our team is heading."

Muns and assistant coach Jackie DeNova endured hardships in year one that neither had experienced before: a one-win season, six one-goal losses and a roster depleted by injuries, just to name a few.

"Just about everything that could've gone wrong went wrong," said Muns. "We honestly looked at each other towards the end of the season and asked what we were doing wrong," Muns said. "We've both been successful throughout our careers – as players and as coaches – so it was very unsettling to see how the year played out. If anything, it made us that much hungrier this year."

So, to prevent a repeat of last season, Muns and DeNova hit the recruiting trail. Hard. After finishing with a roster too small to afford substitutes, the Cobras come into 2012 fielding a team of 27.

"We're deep, we're talented, and we're going to compete," said Muns. "This group has been great so far throughout preseason. We're jelling as a team, and the work ethic has been off the charts."

Leading the way for this year's squad are seniors Sarah Rountree, a third team all-conference selection, Haley Gibson, Sarah Kinsey and Morgan Hartline.

With a fresh crop of recruits and a stout returning class, the Cobras should turn some heads this season. And, with a little luck, help their coach sleep easier.

The women's soccer team begins the season Aug. 31 at Valdosta State.