Oregon State Women's Soccer Prepares for 2014 Season

After a long offseason, the players were happy to have a chance to get back on the field together.

Oregon State women's soccer head coach Linus Rhode. Photo Courtesy: OSU Athletics

(CORVALLIS, Ore. ) - The Oregon State women’s soccer program began its next chapter Wednesday, as the Beavers held their first practice of 2014.

With a number of new players intertwined with some familiar faces, Oregon State is poised for an exciting year, as it moves closer to its season opener against Stephen F. Austin on Aug. 22.

“I thought our first day was good,” said head coach Linus Rhode. “The biggest thing we were looking to do today was to keep the competition level up, and the players responded. There’s a lot of talent out here, so now we just have to work on putting all the pieces together. Overall, I’m very happy with day one.”

The team began with a morning practice that began at 10:00 a.m. It was followed by an afternoon training session, which kicked off at 3:00 p.m. After a long offseason, the players were happy to have a chance to get back on the field together.

“I think today went really well,” said junior Gwen Bieck. “Everyone was really positive, and we were all excited to get to play together for the first time this year.”

Now, with the first day behind them, the Beavers are looking at what they can continue to build on as training progresses.

“As we move forward, we’ll look to focus in on our style of play and our formation,” Rhode said. “Right now we’re laying the foundation, and making sure we bring a high standard every day.”

As the fall continues, Oregon State plans to keep working hard. And with just 16 days left until the season begins, the Beavers plan to continue growing as a team, both on and off the field.

“We need to keep working hard every practice,” Bieck said. “We need to keep working together, and I think it’s important to build team chemistry both on and off the field. I think having a tight-knit team and working hard will carry us a long way.”

The Beavers will open their home slate on Aug. 29, when they host Loyola Marymount. The 2014 season will include seven games aired on Pac-12 Networks, beginning with the Beavers’ clash with St. Mary’s on Aug. 31.

Source: Oregon State Athletics