Golden again.
That will be the goal of the PGFC Subway women's soccer team when it kicks in the top division of the Kamloops Invitational this coming weekend. But, with some familiar faces out of the lineup, securing a three-peat at the annual tournament may prove to be a serious challenge.
"Seven of our regular players that traditionally go, for either previous commitments or injuries, are unable to make it so we've had to pick up some youth players to supplement our roster," said Frank Rossi, who co-coaches the squad with Mato Mikic. "It's a big hit. This is going to be more of an experience for the younger players because they'll get lots of playing time. But, we still have a good core. We're still pretty confident we're going to go and show really well."
Among those not able to make the trip to Kamloops are the offensive-minded Danielle Lavallee and defensive stalwarts Karmen Fu and Carrissa Rossi. Players like Jessica Manning and Jessica Erickson from the Prince George Youth Soccer Association's Under-18 Kodiaks will help fill those gaps in the roster. In particular, Manning and Erickson will be counted on to create scoring chances, as will Jay-Anna Major Briere, a veteran of the Prince George Women's Soccer Association.
PGFC's core, meanwhile, is formed by midfielders Holly Miller, Andrea Bertulli and Corey Rossi and by Jodi Godwin on the back end.
In goal, PGFC will rely on the abilities of Vancouver's Judy Soon, who has been recruited by Mikic.
The Kamloops Invitational typically serves as training ground for college and university players who are preparing for their seasons so the level of play is high. PGFC's most significant rival could be the Kamloops Heat, which will feature members of the Thompson Rivers University WolfPack.
Last year, PGFC shaded the Heat 1-0 in the championship final of the competitive division and Miller was picked as the most valuable player.
The tournament starts on Saturday and will wrap up on Monday.
