DARIEN — One thing is for sure as the Hornets get set for the 2013 season — senior day is going to take a bit longer.

Last season, South had just one senior on the team, defender Carolanne Pilch. The Hornets will miss her leadership off the field and her talent on it, but with so much talent returning they are excited for the potential this season.

"Pretty much everyone from last year is back," head coach Pat Wolf said. "The girls are all excited. We have a quality group of girls coming back."

Included are a slew of seniors who have been with the varsity team since they were freshmen, and some juniors who saw varsity action last spring.

In addition to being a team leader, Pilch was the anchor of the defense. Losing her will be mitigated by the return of goalkeeper Vanessa Niestrom. Defenders Colleen McPherson and Brenda Magueri also return, and Wolf said Magueri could also slide forward to figure into the attack.

Julie Vezzani and Jessica Mutters, who returns to the Hornets after concentrating on club soccer for two years, figure to anchor the attack. The only problem so far is figuring out exactly how all the pieces will fit together.

"We've only been outside (for practice) one day so far, and we didn't even touch the ball that one day," Wolf said. "Our practices inside have been pretty good for as much as you can do inside, but it's hard to put people in specific places. Once we're outside a bit more we'll be able to see a bit more."

Wolf said he also has a solid group of freshmen at his disposal, but they might spend most of their time on the lower levels this season.

"We might bring some kids up with us, but because we have a core group I'd like to see what that group can do first and then maybe bring the freshmen up if need be," Wolf said. "It's nice to know they are there in case someone gets hurt or something."

 

Team at a glance

Nickname: Hornets

Coach: Pat Wolf

2012 Record: 7-13-3

Top returners:

Kerry Just sr. M

Brenda Magueri sr. D/M

Colleen McPherson sr. D

Vanessa Niestrom sr. GK

Julie Vezzani sr. F

Promising newcomers:

Jessica Mutters sr. F