Dillinger Sees Early Progress in ISU Soccer Squad

AMES, Iowa?Just over 24 hours into the 2009 campaign, Iowa State soccer coach Wendy Dillinger already sees measurable improvement from where the Cyclones were a year ago.

“We are off to a great start,” Dillinger said. “The fitness level is much higher than it was when we reported last preseason, which is going to make a big difference. It means fewer injuries. We have made a lot of progress in the last year. I think everybody understands what it takes to compete at this level in terms of the fitness level we have to maintain to compete in the Big 12. Just physically, we are in a better position than we were a year ago.”

Dillinger also points to a strong team culture having an impact on the strides the team has made as the seniors have stepped into their roles as leaders.

“The culture is great,” Dillinger said. “The attitude and mentality is where we want it to be. I also think the commitment from the upperclassmen is great. The seniors have come a long way in the last year and a half. I am really impressed with their commitment to what we are doing and their mental toughness. They have really shown a lot of growth."

While the upperclassmen are providing the leadership needed on a successful team, the freshman class is adding depth and creativity to the Cyclones.

“I think the freshman group that came in definitely adds some flair and a dynamic to different areas of the field. We have more depth because the people that are coming in can play in multiple positions. A couple of kids have shown in a day that they are going to add to our attacking presence. They have some flair and personality around the goal.”

The Cyclones start the regular season Aug. 21 when they travel to Creighton for a 7 p.m. match. Iowa State starts its home schedule Aug. 28 with a 7 p.m. match against South Dakota State at the ISU Soccer Complex.

Iowa State University Athletics

Dillinger Sees Early Progress in ISU Soccer Squad

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