Head Coach Mike Barroqueiro takes over the women’s soccer program this season, as Iona looks to make a name for itself in the MAAC.

After serving as an assistant coach for the past three seasons at the College of Charleston, Barroqueiro’s fresh outlook will be a perfect fit for a program coming off a rough season.

Barroqueiro brings enthusiasm and leadership to New Rochelle as the team looks to move forward this season.

This year’s team will be disciplined not only on the field, but also off the field according to the coach. Barroqueiro wants his players to create an environment that is built on the idea of consistent hard work.

 

By taking this approach, along with paying attention to detail and having a disciplined attitude the little things will be taken care of. The team believes this attitude will produce a successful and fun team to watch this fall.

In the 2011 MAAC Women’s Soccer Preseason Coaches’ Poll, Iona is picked to finish ninth out of ten teams.

The Gaels, however, are using this as motivation every day at practice, so the team can climb up the standings.

The outlook is not negative for the team, as the Gaels return with a strong core of players.

“We worked extremely hard this past spring and during preseason with our new coach, improving both mentally and physically. It has paid off and we have already found success. It’s a new team and a new year with new beginnings,” sophomore Trista Rivera said.

Last season, Rivera was named to the MAAC All-Rookie team as a goalkeeper.

Senior Kerrie Deignan will be a player that the Gaels will count on to provide an offensive spark. She appeared in all 20 games last year, and led the team with three goals.

Junior Leah Taylor is also a strong player for the Gaels. The third-year defender is the anchor on defense, and had a pair of goals along with an assist last season after starting 19 games.

Sophomore Leanne Benson looks to breakout also after scoring a goal, and appearing in 19 games last year. Sophomore Nicole “Cubby” Paulucci will be another Gael that will provide experience on the field.

The Gaels also brought in eight new recruits this year, and will  look to these new members to contribute right away.

“Our newcomers have been pretty stellar thus far. It is always an adjustment for any kid when making the jump from club soccer to the college game. That being said, through some very hard work we’ve had a few young players who have stepped right in and helped make an impact immediately,” said Barroqueiro.

 

“Melissa Frederick is going to develop into a big time goal scorer in the MAAC and Natalie Murphy is an absolute rockstar, playing every minute of every match thus