MOSCOW, Idaho – The spring season has just over a week left as Idaho soccer continues to improve ahead of what is already shaping up to be another incredible year in 2017.
 
"We're really happy with where we are at this point in time, coming off of our game against the Sounders' boys' program," said head coach Derek Pittman.  "We've been able to polish up a couple of things over the last few weeks, not only with our fitness but also with some of the tactical things that we are putting into place with this young group.  We're looking forward to playing against some quality opponents in Western Washington in Spokane on Saturday and North Idaho at home on Sunday."
 
Idaho has played four games so far in the spring, going 3-0-1 and conceding just one goal.  The Vandals lost nine seniors to graduation, including seven consistent starters, leaving plenty of opportunities for the younger crop of athletes to step up and earn more time in 2017.
 
"The players are working hard, we've seen their fitness levels continue to rise.  That's something that we always want to see in the spring.  We're very proud of their mentality and how they're handling their business each and every day with their training habits.  At this point in time, knowing how many seniors we lost from last season, this young group is really starting to come together and form into a very difficult team to play against."
 
There are, however, a number of familiar names that have cemented their roles in the team.
 
"As far as players stepping up, I cannot say enough about how players like Kelly Dopke, Josilyn Daggs and Olivia Baggerly have continued to have big influences on this team.  It's nice to see players like Anna Rose Wiencek step up in her new role as well.  And even the likes of Summer Kaneshiro, Bridget Daley and Myah Merino up top, making life difficult for other teams' back lines.  Then the consistent play of Megan Goo and the rest of our midfield, and Malia Morales stepping up and doing an excellent job as well.  Those are just a few of the names that are having good days and training really, really hard."
 
Fans have two opportunities at home over the next week to see the Vandals.  Idaho will take on North Idaho at 1 p.m. on Sunday on the Sprinturf and will face its alumni, including many of the recently graduated seniors, at 12 p.m. on Saturday, April 29 in the Dome.
 
"I'm looking forward to these games coming up this weekend and then hosting our alumns on the 29th.  I hope everybody has a chance to come out and support Idaho soccer!"
 
Check back with GoVandals.com next week to see how the weekend went.
 
Fans can stay up-to-date on all things Idaho soccer by following the team on Twitter and Instagram, @VandalsSoccer, or on Facebook by searching Idaho Vandals Women's Soccer.

For more information on Idaho Athletics, visit GoVandals.com.  Fans can also find Idaho on Twitter and Instagram, @Idaho_Vandals, or on Facebook by searching Idaho Vandals.