2016 Women’s Soccer Outlook

HERKIMER, NY – The Herkimer Generals women’s soccer team is coming off their second consecutive Region 3 championship and National Championship Tournament appearance in 2016. Several returners will be looking to help lead the Generals and the reloaded roster that saw some key departures, losing seven starters such as leading scorer and All-American forward Teigha Ward, All-American goalkeeper Sydney Stanley, defenders Jessica Hagadorn and Nicole Doolen, and midfielders Alyssa Lepper and Kalli Warmingham.

Herkimer returns All-American midfielder Grace Johnson along with Jenna Bailey, Chelsea Corrow, Leann Clark, Alexys Bolton and Saige Hampston. They will look to lead the way for the talented incoming freshmen class. Each logged significant time last year while playing for a General’s team that allowed only two goals during the regular season.

“They are extremely hungry and anxiously waiting to get started and try to claim a third regional championship and finish what we were so close to achieving last year,” said Acting Head Coach Jason Palkovic. “Their experience last year will help us to achieve what we want to do this year.”

Along with a stellar group of returners, the program is bringing in a very talented group of freshmen. There are three first-team NYSSWA All-State selections in Mikayla Blumenstock (Poland), Hannah Taylor (O.E.S.J.) and Danielle Charland (Chateaugay). All-League selections in Alexis Ramos (Proctor), Honesti Crochran (Wingdale), M’Kenzie Bradshaw (Oswego), Burkley Cole (Hobart), Alyse Griffin (Camden), Marsala Bono (Frankfort), Alexis Hufnagel (Hyde Park) and Jenna Rogers (South Lewis).

“It is very tough to replace the caliber of players that moved on from last year but I think we are definitely heading in the right direction with this class,” said Palkovic. “This is a very talented group to mix in with the returners. Several of them have valuable playoff and championship experience that will help us on our journey. This is going to be a very fun group to watch!”

-Jason Palkovic