ORLANDO, Fla. (UCFKnights.com) – The UCF women's soccer team looks for a surge from its sophomore class as the season opener draws near.
Head coach Tiffany Roberts Sahaydak knows that one of those Knights had a great freshman campaign that could continue into her second season with the Black and Gold.
"Zandy Soree is so smooth on the ball," Roberts Sahaydak said. "She's very creative. She is a very sophisticated player who understands the game really well, but also has the possibility of being a game-changer for us."
The Weston, Fla., native earned a spot on the American Athletic Conference All-Rookie team in 2016. Roberts Sahaydak believes that, with a little more confidence, the midfielder has the ability to take over games for the Knights.
"I think there will be competition in the goalkeeper position," Roberts Sahaydak said. "Chloe is very athletic and improving every day."
A native of Paris, N'Gazi saw action in just one match during her freshman season. The French goalkeeper put in extra work during the offseason, increasing the level of competition at her position. Roberts Sahaydak noted that N'Gazi and junior Vera Varis could share time in goal.
Additionally, UCF returns Payton Grewal, Christina Trickett and Katriina Kuoksa. Each saw action in at least 12 matches last season. Redshirt sophomores Adrienne Li and Jessica Taylor, along with Mack Thompson, are also back for the Knights.
The Knights officially open the season on Aug. 18, traveling to No. 4 South Carolina. UCF returns to the UCF Soccer Complex to host Stetson on Aug. 20.
DON'T MISS OUT
The UCF women's soccer team is set for its fifth season under head coach Tiffany Roberts Sahaydak and will welcome six teams from the 2016 NCAA Tournament to the UCF Soccer Complex in 2017. Click here or call (407) 823-1000 for ticket information.
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Membership to Knights Watch, the official supporters group of UCF Soccer, begins at $15 for students and $50 for fans. Packages include tickets to all home contests for men's and women's soccer, a Knights Watch T-Shirt, a soccer scarf and a variety of free catered tailgates. To become a member, click here.
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