The 2008 Millsaps women's soccer team looks to continue their winning ways this season under sixth year head coach Paul Van Hooydonk. The team looks to improve on some bests that were set in 2007 which included a 6-9-2 mark, the teams most wins since 1995.

“I am excited to see who will step up this season to lead the team,” Van Hooydonk said. “I feel great about the team that we have this year.”

The Majors return 16 lettermen from the 2007 season, including eight starters. Of those returning starters, junior Leslie Robichaux returns after making an immediate impact in her first season of play. Robichaux led the team in points (20), goals (eight), assists (four) and shots-on-goal (25). Junior Meredith Harris, the teams defensive MVP, along with senior goalkeeper Elizabeth Sooby helped the Majors post a single-season seven shutouts a year ago and both return in 2008.

The team returns six seniors this season who will give them a veteran presence. Hayley Barber and Kristen Massey return in their final season to man the midfield position. Forward Bobbi Jones returns to the team, a regular in corner kicks, and was second on the team in assists (four) and fourth in points (eight.) Ann Blumer returns to lead a stingy defense. “I am expecting for all of my starters to play a big roll for us this season.”

One of the biggest losses of the season was senior midfielder Callie Roth, a two-time All-SCAC player. “It will be a tough loss for the team but I am excited about the team that we have coming in.”

With one of the largest freshman classes in five years (12) coming to the Majors this season, look to see a lot of new faces making a big impact for the team. “Our main goal is to continue to get better and have continued improved play, which will lead to better results.”

The Majors open their 2008 season on Aug. 29 at East Texas Baptist University in Marshall, Texas. The home-opener at Harper Davis Field will be on Sept. 5 against Louisiana College at 7:00 p.m. Millsaps begins SCAC play with a Sept. 26 date at Austin College in Sherman, Texas at 4:00 p.m.