Veterans in key spots and a large roster are two reasons Michael Massie is cautiously optimistic about the 2019 Fort Campbell soccer season.
The second-year head coach wasn’t too pleased with his summer numbers but has seen his roster swell to 42 kids once school started. The added depth has allowed Massie to get a quicker idea of who he will slot into several openings in the starting lineup.
Up front, the Falcons return Rafael Cerritos and Jhony Paniagua who will be expected to carry most of the offensive load.
Senior Jack Cogbill and junior Josh Murphy return in the center and back for the Falcons, who will need to improve their 6.5 goals allowed average from last year.
Marcus Hay saw time in goal for the Falcons, who ran several players between the pipes last year.
The Falcons showed flashes of turning the corner last year, including a trip to the championship game of the All-A Classic Region Tournament. However, Massie is just hoping for more consistent efforts from the Falcons in 2019.
Fort Campbell opens their season Monday when they host Trigg County at Fryar Stadium.