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Ipswich Boys Soccer Preview

Last year's record: 11-5-6

Coach: Rick Storer (12th season)

Returning players: Paul VanSchyndel, Sr., Def; Ben Lane, Sr., Mid; Zach Hathaway, So., Mid; Jack Goldsworthy, Jr., Def; Mike Krathwohl, Sr., Mid; Peter McGrath, Sr., Def; Nick Grim, Jr., Mid.

Strengths: The Tigers will carry eight sophomores, some of whom are expected to blossom. They'll make a good complement for the team's seven seniors. Ipswich has qualified for the state tourney for seven straight years and the Division 3 North final for two consecutive years, so the team would like to keep the recent tradition going.

Concerns: Lane is the top returning scorer (3 goals last season), so the Tigers have a lot of work to do on offense. All-league goalie Max Williams also graduated and so did most of the defensive players.

Coach's outlook: "Last year was somewhat of a surprise in that we exceeded expectations. Having said that, half our squad is made up of sophomores, so there could be some growing pains. Still, I think we'll be competitive in the CAL Small. We have no stars, so this is a great opportunity for kids to take charge."