Entering a new season proves to be a nerve-racking experience for any college athlete, especially when faced with an extremely competitive schedule. Despite a 4-12-1 record to end their regular season last fall, the women’s soccer team used the experience to remind themselves that competing with some of the top teams in the country was a victory in itself.

“This season gave several of our underclassmen a chance to show their leadership skills,” says Head Coach Stephen Dregits.

With nine of the 11 starters returning in the fall, Dregits remains positive about the tactical changes the players have made throughout the season. On top of that, he plans to bring in quality recruits for the coming season that have the ability to challenge the returners for starting spots. As of now, five girls have committed to the program in the fall, which will be Dregits’ third season at Bethel.

“I’m looking forward to seeing how the incoming freshmen adjust to college soccer,” says Dregits. “With the off-season work the returning players are doing and the talent of our incoming freshmen, next season should be an exciting year for Bethel women’s soccer.”

Despite the rebuilding year, the Pilots added some great accomplishments to their track record. Nicole Steller (’14), the leading goal scorer on the team, earned the first team All- Conference title for the second year in a row.

Kelcy Heckaman (’13) transitioned to a new position (from midfield to central defender) and was one of four who received the NAIA Scholar- Athlete Award. The other three to successfully juggle athletics and academics were Shannon Jennings (’12), Danielle Behrndt (’12) and Pua Hall (’13).