One thing all of the new faces hope is that the success local teams have had of late remains constant.
The pre-season took place Tuesday with the three local teams playing a round robin set of scrimmages. The games gave the new coaches at Vanier and Central a chance to evaluate their teams.
Greg Cox inherits the defending provincial 2A champions at Vanier. The Spirits beat Peacock 2-1 and Central 3-0 to open the year on a winning note. Peacock beat Central 2-0 in the other 50 minute game.
“I’m on a learning curve. For me, walking in, it’s a very talented team that we have,” said Cox, who is joined by veteran Vanier coach Rick Spanjer and Tom and Cathy Plosz. It’s a transition year for Cox before he takes over in earnest next season.
Cox admits that the team presents a new challenge after coaching hockey and high school football most recently. The Spirits have seven seniors, but also have five Grade 9s.
Kaitlin Thiessen scored twice and Molly Cox also scored in the 3-0 win over Central. Cox and Megan Winkler scored in the 2-1 win over Peacock while Jessica Williams replied for the Tornadoes.
I’m on a learning curve. For me, walking in, it’s a very talented team that we have - Vanier girls' soccer coach Greg Cox
For more, read Wednesday's Times-Herald.
