Owls Begin Preseason Practice
From Stuart Kaufman, Sports Information: While the men’s soccer team got an early start with a trip to Costa Rica last week, the rest of Keene State’s fall teams began their preseason on Monday, August 18. The Owls are hoping that practice makes perfect.
The first day of practice can be a logistical nightmare for the coaches and staff. Eligibility has to be confirmed, physicals have to be taken, and housing has to be assigned. “The key is preparation,” said KSC athletics director John Ratliff. “You need a system in place that enables the athletes to get as much done as possible before they even arrive back on campus.”
Before stepping onto the field, coaches give their players a chance to unwind and catch up with friends. “We don’t get them out and put them through their paces running wise,” said KSC cross-country coach Peter Thomas. “We want them to start forming some bonds with their teammates and get comfortable in their environment.”
“Sometimes you get players who are a little homesick,” said KSC women’s soccer coach Denise Lyons. “You need to talk to talk to them and make sure they are able to make the adjustment.”
“I think the freshmen can be intimidated by the whole experience,“ said KSC field hockey coach Amy Watson. “It’s different for fall sports because you’re not only coming to a new team, but also a new school and a new home. The first week can be overwhelming.”
KSC women’s volleyball coach Bob Weiner said evaluation can be tricky and time-consuming. “We have 10 new players, so we’re trying to figure out who’s who and what they are capable of doing,” he said. “You have to give players time to acclimate. Some take longer than others.”
While some coaches start off with drills, Lyons’s first practice includes a scrimmage pitting veterans against the new players. “We get to see what we have, and the players get a chance to evaluate their competition,” she said.
Thomas, in the meantime, uses a short time trial for his runners before sending them out on longer practice workouts.
Regardless of their methods, the name of the game is to get ready for the season. The price paid in August could pay dividends in November. “The preseason can be very trying, both mentally and physically, but you have to look at the big picture,” said Watson. “It’s all about motivation and bringing the team closer. A good season starts with a good preseason.”
KSC teams kick-off their fall seasons the weekend of August 30. The women’s soccer team is home against Norwich while everyone else is on the road. The men’s soccer team is at the Salisbury (Md.) tournament, the field hockey team is at RPI, and the volleyball squad is at Gordon College. The Owl cross-country teams begin their season with an Alumni Meet before getting set for a meet the following week at Trinity College.
Photo: Adam Skibek
Junior Lindy Caslin makes a defensive save during field hockey practice.
