LSU soccer is familiar with the out with the old, in with the new philosophy.
The team graduated five talented seniors and gained five talented freshman within the same breath.
But while LSU coach Brian Lee notes that his team is talented, he does know that there is a hump that the team needs to get over.
After coming off of their season-opening double-overtime win in Oklahoma, the Tigers came away with a draw from their home opener with Rice, who was down a player for the last 24 minutes of the game because of a red card. The team has already played to more ties and double-overtime games than last season, which were at one and three respectively.
“This year’s team is a bit of a transition era for us,” Lee said.
The current starters are a mix of talent and experience, with seniors, third-year starters and multiple freshmen.
“We’re all very skilled players for sure,” said freshman forward/midfielder Jade Kovacevic. “We can learn each other’s playing styles so that we can play better together, not just as individuals.”
Lee looks to his upperclassmen for leadership, and they try not to focus on the hard-nosed approach. The experienced players lead with that principle in mind.
“I lead by being hard on everyone on the team to make sure they know the importance of each game and playing hard,” said redshirt sophomore defender Jodi Calloway. “College soccer is competitive. If they make a mistake, it’s OK, everyone makes mistakes. There needs to be a balance between being hard and being encouraging.”
Leadership from upperclassmen has not gone unnoticed.
Senior forward Carlie Banks has two goals so far this season, which were the Tigers’ lone goals in a loss to NC State and draw with Alabama.
“Their role within the team for each [senior] has increased year to year,” Lee said. “They have become better players. They’ve come into the season as great team leaders first and foremost.”
Lee knows the importance of every game, while making sure his players see the bigger picture.
“I really judge our kids on two things,” Lee said. “What has the team accomplished with us, and do they maximize their potential as student-athletes during the four years while they are with us? Did they get better every year?”
LSU returns to action Friday against Auburn at 7 p.m. in LSU Soccer Stadium to conclude its ten-game homestand.
“They will always be tough to beat,” Lee said.
Both teams will aim for their first Southeastern Conference win this season, with Auburn (4-5) on the heels of losses to Missouri and Florida.
“We know every SEC weekend will be a grind,” Lee said. “There will be no weak opponents.”
