By STEVE SINISKI
First-year coach Michelle Hilton, herself just one year removed from collegiate play, takes a hand-on approach when instilling her system.
"We're close in age and I thought that might be a problem at first," Hilton said. "But it's been perfect. We communicate well and I can use my experiences to help them."
Led by senior captains Meghan Herron, Lisa Vacarro and Maria Semintore, Baldwin's leadership spans the entire field, which will help as the girls adjust to a new coach. "I was kind of hesitant because I didn't know their skill level," Hilton said of her first week of practice. "But from that first pre-season week, the girls went all out. You can tell that the girls have playoff experience under their belt."
Baldwin will look to run an up-tempo style of play that will rely on even the defense pushing the ball up-field. "I don't want the girls to be afraid to carry the ball," Hilton said. "We're going to be offensive-minded."
The Bruins' scoring attack will be paced by Jesse Malone and Semintore with wingers Jolene Lesterman and Stephanie Eatz also playing large roles.
With an emphasis on forcing the action, the team's midfielders will be crucial in getting plays set. In Baldwin's 3-1 loss on Sept. 12, sophomore midfielder Kaitlyn Jules scored the team's only goal.
"She is very skilled and poised and has a great sense of the field," Hilton said.
Christine Studley, one of the Bruins' best athletes, has the speed and quickness to get into opponent's territory, but she'll also be called on to do more than just look for open teammates.
"I've told her to get into the circle and shoot more," Hilton said. "Because even if she doesn't score, we can capitalize on the rebounds."
The defense will be anchored by Herron and Vaccaro, a fourth-year player who lines up at the all-important sweeper spot. Sophomore Latisha Nero has caught Hilton's eye because of her ability to contain opponents and force them away from the middle of the field. Megan Dixon is also slated to lineup on Baldwin's backline. Goaltender Michelle Fox, whose speed and nifty footwork came in handy as she stopped 15 Massapequa shots, is also back for Baldwin.
"A lot of the girls are looking towards a championship," Hilton said. "And that's not unrealistic. It just takes heart and pride. We're very optimistic and have set some high goals."
