Kirtland enters the 2017 season with nine returning starters and 16 returning lettermen, leaving the Hornets confident they can compete for the Chagrin Valley Conference title and make a deep run in the postseason.
“After graduating only two starters from last year’s team, we believe that we can improve on last year’s conference finish and run in the state tournament,” said 14th year head coach Ed Bradac, who led the Hornets to the state Final Four in 2015. “We need to stay healthy, adjust to several new players in key roles, and continue to work hard in practice each and every day.”
The Hornets, who finished 13-4-2 overall and 3-2-1 in league play last season, return several key players including senior midfielder Hannah Vouk, who is closing in on the school’s all-time assists record.
Vouk scored seven goals with 13 assists last fall.
“Hannah earned second team All-Ohio honors last year as a junior and for good reason,” Bradac said. “She is a tireless worker, both on and off of the field.”
Senior keeper Gabby Culotta also returns after posting 11 shutouts and allowing just 14 goals in 19 games last year.
“She is one of the better goalies in the area,” Bradac said. “She returns to lead a strong defense. Her game has improved each and every year and her leadership is one of her greatest qualities.”
Senior Maggie Kadas scored just one goal last season but her leadership inspires her teammates to step up their level of play.
“Maggie does not have amazing stats but what she has is tremendous leadership,” Bradac said. “She has been a starter for our team for the past three years. She is our vocal leader and motivator on the field.”
Bradac is counting on several underclassmen to continue to improve and contribute.
Junior attacker Jenna Sayle scored seven goals with seven assists last season.
“Jenna is healthy for us this year and it has showed during our scrimmages,” Bradac said. “She is a threat every time she gets the ball at her feet in space. She has a motor that does not stop and this creates a great deal of pressure on the opposing teams.”
Sophomores Lidia Rodin and Maya Zovko both turned in strong freshman campaigns and create challenges for opposing defenses.
Rodin scored 14 goals with seven assists.
“Lidia is a unique talent,” Bradac said. “She has the potential to score anytime she gets the ball at her feet. Her speed, combined with her foot skills, make her a threat at the forward position.”
Zovko scored six goals with four assists.
“Finally healthy after her freshman year, Maya is playing the best soccer that I have seen her play so far in high school,” Bradac said. “She has worked hard to get to be in the best physical shape of her life. She can beat you with her speed, but more likely she will beat you with her moves.”
Kirtland opens the season on Friday at Willoughby South.
