MITCHELL, S.D. – Youth will be on display for the Dakota Wesleyan University women's soccer team in 2016 with three sophomores and five true freshman set to see extended playing time as third-year coach Clay Glasgow is looking to build depth for the future of the Tigers.
DWU enters the upcoming season with three seniors on the team that will be looked to for leadership for the young group. Senior defender Jessica Lopez is the most experienced Tiger, entering her fourth year with the team after starting 16 games as a junior on the back line for DWU. Makenna Hancock will also see extended playing time after coming off the bench her first three seasons as a Tiger, while Kira Miller, a transfer to DWU prior to 2015 will provide depth at goalkeeper and at multiple positions on the field.
Sophomore Gemini Wesley is the leading returning scorer for DWU after putting away three goals for the Tigers last season. Wesley played in all 18 and started 17 games as a freshman, taking 20 shots and putting 12 on frame. She scored the winning goal in overtime to give DWU a win in extra time over rival Mount Marty College.
Sophomore Brittany Forsman showed flashes of brilliance and athletic prowess in her first season. She scored one goal, taking 28 shots with 14 on goal. Brooke Forsman will be a leader in the midfield as the lone returning starter at the position.
The 2016 recruiting class includes several talented players including Kaylynn Anziano (Rapid City), Lillian Asmann (Castle Rock, Colo.), Jocelyn Behm (Sioux Falls), Ashtyn Cobb (Huron) and Alyssa Weidler (Sioux Falls).
DWU opens the 2016 season at the University of Sioux Falls at 7 p.m. Aug. 22 in Sioux Falls.
