The Fairfield Lions and seventh year head coach Brian Ortlieb are hoping to turn things around in the 2015 season after finishing last year 1-15 and winless in the Southern Hills Athletic Conference. They will try and do that with a somewhat inexperienced team.
“Six of the 16 on our roster this year are first-year players, some of which have either never played soccer before or haven’t played in several years,” said Coach Ortlieb. “There will be a big learning curve for this squad, but they seem to pick things up fairly quick. Some of the new guys will be called upon to fill critical roles on the team. The boys seem to be working well together and progressing every training session.”
Coach Ortlieb is hoping to get some leadership from his 10 returning players, and his five seniors.
“I fully expect our experienced seniors to be a positive influence on the underclassmen and lead the team,” said Ortlieb.
“I think that we can be competitive in the league,” the coach added. “Obviously, you look for as much success as you can garner. We are looking for a top half finish in the league. As for tournament, each year is different and early in the season it’s hard to tell how your team will respond in October. Your hope is that the team will continue to grow and gel and the result is a deep run into the tournament. The boys will determine their own fate with their work ethic and commitment leading up to the post season.”
Reach Robert Stegbauer at 937-393-3456 ext. 1679 or on Twitter @RStegbauer.
