2014 Palo Verde Girls Soccer Capsule

PALO VERDE

Head coach: Frank Messina, eighth season

2013 record: 16-3-1 (8-2 Northwest, second)

Returning letter winners (starters): Twelve (nine)

Top athletes: MF Jadyn Nogues (So,), MF Mackenzie Nogues (Sr.), F Macee Barlow (So.)

Outlook: A fantastic season ended on a sour note for the Panthers, who bowed out in the first round of the Sunset Region playoffs. But with nine starters back, Palo Verde is set up for another strong year.

Jadyn Nogues (18 goals, eight assists), Barlow (10 goals, 10 assists) and Mackenzie Nogues (five goals, 14 assists) all are capable offensive weapons.

“The returning players look to bounce back and work hard for another league title,” Messina said. “The last year’s expectations were extremely high, and Palo Verde’s loss of a key scoring leader will not hinder the competitive edge often seen from this squad, especially with the addition of a few young players.

“Palo Verde’s expectations certainly have not changed, and even though the road to the final stage may involve additional hard work, the players are determined to meet their goals and to challenge each other along the way.”