Razorback soccer continues preseason workouts

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Four days into preseason training in preparation for the upcoming 2009 campaign and the University of Arkansas soccer team has displayed a level of competiveness and drive that has impressed head coach Erin Aubry. Arkansas wrapped its fourth two-a-day session Saturday at its home field, Razorback Field."We’ve seen a tremendous amount of effort and heart," Aubry said. "We have had a great commitment from our players over the summer with their training, fitness and strength. So in terms of our athletic ability right now, we are absolutely outstanding and that commitment is showing through."Arkansas will be led by its 2009 senior class of Kat Moffett, Kathleen Paulsen, Kim Schleif and Sophie Wentz. The veteran group of Razorback returners also has Kelly O’Connor, the top returning scorer from last season, and Britni Williams, the team’s starting goalkeeper of the past two years. Arkansas depth will be bolstered by nine newcomers, including five freshmen and transfers Kelsey Allison (Oklahoma), Laurel Pastor (Virginia Commonwealth) and Chelsea Tidwell (Winthrop)."I think one of the things impressing us the most is our depth all over the field," Aubry said. "If you asked me tomorrow to put a starting 11 on the field, I couldn’t do it. We have that much competition going on right now and that much depth."Part of the Razorbacks’ preseason schedule takes the team to Norman, Okla., for an Aug. 14 exhibition matchup with the Oklahoma Sooners. The match is scheduled for a 7 p.m. start at John Crain Field at the OU Soccer Complex."We are definitely going to use Oklahoma as an opportunity to get better," Aubry said. "We are going to train through Oklahoma which means we’re not going to worry too much about tapering so that we have fresh legs for that event. We’re going to make sure we continue to work on our fitness base, as well as starting to work on becoming more organized."After a one-workout day scheduled for Sunday, the Razorbacks return to their two-practice schedule to begin the week Monday. It will be the final full week of practice before Arkansas travels to takes on Michigan in its Aug. 21 season opener. For continued coverage of Razorback soccer, visit ArkansasRazorbacks.com.