Year in and year out, Coach Marc Kenny's girls' soccer team is in the mix among the top South-West Conference teams. Coming off an 11-2-3 record a year ago, Kenney's Newtown High School squad will again look to be in the postseason and contend for conference and state championships, but the focus is on adapting to change and staying focused on what needs to be done day to day.The Bee.

Following the graduation of ten players, six of whom were starters, and both goaltenders, the Nighthawks have a bit of a new look this fall.

"The winning will take care of itself," Kenney anticipates. "I'm cautiously optimistic. If we adapt well we're going to do pretty well."

Kenney likes the effort and commitment on the part of his players.

"They work together well, they communicate well," Kenney said. "They're super dedicated and they work hard."

The coach wants his players to switch the field, and move the ball quickly, while keeping it low to utilize its strengths and considering it is a physically fit lineup not with a lot of height.

Captains are forward Sarah Houle, defender Cassidy Kortze, and midfielder Grace Corcoran.

Houle and Emma Curtis were among the top scorers in the conference and again will be counted on to lead the offense, Kenney said.

"Offensively we're really good. That's where we have the most experience," Kenney said.

Players who have stepped with solid improvement over the summer, and whom Kenney believes will be integral parts of this lineup, include Carli Smith, Kaitlin King, and Faith O'Hara.

One area of uncertainty but significant depth is in the goal. Kenney was working with six goalkeepers in the preseason, and said it was the first time in his 11 years at Newtown High that he has played four goalkeepers in a single scrimmage.

The Hawks have their opener on Friday, September 8, when they visit Kolbe Cathedral of Bridgeport at 4 pm. The first home game is set for Tuesday, September 19, when New Fairfield comes to Treadwell Park at 4 pm.

Read the full article in the September 8 print edition of