2017 CBU WOMEN’S SOCCER SEASON OUTLOOK
The Cape Breton University Women’s Soccer Program began its training camp on Saturday, August 26th. The CAPERS cruised through the 2016 regular season with an 11-1-0 record on their way to the number 1 seed in the AUS. They outscored their opponents 32-4 and had the top defensive team in the country. This season’s addition of the CAPERS is looking to bounce back from a disappointing semifinal loss in last year’s playoffs.
Head Coach Ness Timmons is returning for his 22nd season in charge of the women’s program. Under Timmons watch, the CAPERS have captured eight AUS titles and one National Championship. When asked about his team goals for the season, Timmons gave a familiar answer, “Our number one goal is to make the playoffs and if you get in the playoffs you have a shot.”
The CAPERS recruiting class this time around has brought six new players, 2 on defense, 2 in the midfield and two forwards. Amelia Carlini (Ottawa, ON), Maddy Johnston (Barrie, ON), MacKenna King (Barrie, ON), Madison Lavers (Halifax, NS), Rachel Leck (Pickering, ON) and Fatou Ndiaye (Montreal, QC) will be the new faces at camp joining a strong core group. Timmons commented, “This recruiting class will give us depth all over the field. These players are all capable of playing right away.” There will be four 5th-year senior players returning for another chance at a title and to finish their careers as champions again. Robyn Novorolsky (Richmond Hill, ON), Tamara Brown (Whitby, ON), Lizzy Trottier (Barrie, ON) and Alyssa Armstrong (St.John’s, NL) will be the leaders of this team. Team Captain and All-star Chelsea Currie (Sydney, NS) has graduated from the team. Timmons noted, “Chelsea was a main stay with us for five years. We won’t be able to replace a girl like Chelsea. She always gave the team energy.” The CAPERS will have some new faces but their playing style and winning traditions will remain the same. Timmons says, “We always try to play an upbeat, fast tempo style of game. We try to be fast on transition, but remain disciplined and organized on defense. The CAPERS open their season hosting the Saint Mary’s Huskies on Saturday, September 9th at 1.00pm. This season also marks the 10th anniversary of the 2007 National Championship. Special events are planned throughout the weekend.