The 2007 season will be a stepping-stone for years to come for the Lesley University women's soccer team and first-year head coach Paul Vasconcelos. The program looks to get on the winning track and eventually compete in post-season play.
 
Lesley returns just nine letter winners from its 2006 team, but the cupboard is far from bare. Vasconcelos has looked to the future with his first recruiting class. With a freshman dominated roster, it only leads to victories in the long run. "Our freshman class brings a lot of versatility to the program," stated Vasconcelos. "We can utilize every player-it is just a matter of when and where we can take full advantage of their strengths."
 
The Lesley focus for 2007 is positioning LU among the NAC contenders. This requires emphasis on self-discipline, work ethic, commitment and a positive outlook. Helping to guide the Lynx to the next level will be 2007 captains Jodi Fralick (Woburn, Mass.) and Lani Cabral-Pini (Wilmington, Mass.). Fralick was last year's NAC Rookie of the Year and 2^nd in the conference in scoring, while Cabral-Pini is a junior midfielder who has a tremendous work ethic and will be a great influence on the incoming freshman.
 
Backing both Cabral-Pini and Fralick in the defense will be sophomore Catherine Folkstead (Ipswich, Mass.) who will be moving back to her sweeper position. Folkstead is a versatile player with a great attitude who will anchor the defense.
 
Highlighting the ‘07 recruiting class will be southern New Jersey standout Lauren Mastellone (Howell, N.J.). "Mastellone is a versatile and athletic player who can play in the attack and is a strong defender," said Vasconcelos. Also looking to make an immediate impact on defense will be newcomers Chelsea Quackenbush (East Hampton, Conn.) and Sarah Etzel (Manorville, N.Y.).
 
In goal for Lesley is athletic sophomore Hailee Lowe. Lowe competed for a starting role at goalkeeper to open the 2006 year, but was hampered with injuries and saw limited action through the second half of the season.