Hungry Camels eager to build off their success
New London — Success hasn't softened it or quenched its thirst for winning.
Last fall's historic season did just the opposite for the Connecticut College women's soccer team.
The Camels returned to campus last weekend even more determined to keep the program among the New England Small College Athletic Conference elite.
They're out to prove what happened last season — winning a program-record 16 games after nine straight losing seasons, capturing the school's first NESCAC title, qualifying for the NCAA tournament and winning an NCAA game for the first time since 1998 — wasn't a fluke.
"They're very hungry," coach Norm Riker said before practice Monday. "They're very humble by their success and from their success. They realize how hard they worked to get there. And they realize the NESCAC is so competitive that it could change on the bounce of a ball.
"Because the way we do things within our team and hold ourselves to the standards that we hold ourselves to as players and students, they're humbled by winning as opposed to being big-headed by it. It talks to their maturity."
The players' hard work over the summer served as another example of their commitment to the cause. They set aside time to build their fitness levels and polish their skills.
A few weeks ago, the Camels gathered at senior Libby Thomas' house in Maine for some bonding and conditioning.
"If we want to achieve everything that we want to, we have to put in the work every day," senior Abby Fagan said.
Riker never worried for a nanosecond that the Camels would show up for preseason out of shape. There's no time to waste with the regular-season opener Sept. 9 at Roger Williams.
"They take a lot of ownership and pride in preparing themselves for the season," Riker said. "They're pretty self-motivated. ... These women are incredibly driven."
Give credit to Riker for creating a positive environment and team-first culture. He's recruited unselfish players with track records of success on the field and in the classroom.
Heading into Riker's fifth season, the Camels are entering unfamiliar territory.
They're ranked in the Division III national preseason poll, checking in at No. 19. It's a sign that the program is gaining respect. It also means they won't be able to sneak up on anybody this season.
"It's a huge accomplishment for our program, going from being not ranked and unknown in the Division III soccer world to a team that's on the same list as national champions," senior Amanda Onofrio said. "Now we're breaking through."
While their status has changed, their attitude remains basically the same. They're never satisfied and continue to do everything they can on a daily basis to become a better team.
The Camels return a deep and talented bunch, a team worthy of NESCAC championship contender status.
"We have the same eagerness and excitement coming into this season as ever," Fagan said. "Obviously, we had such an amazing season. Everyone is ready to work off of that."
Onofrio added: "Everybody on the team wants more."
g.keefe@theday.com
Twitter: @GavinKeefe
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