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B10 Fall Sports Preview The Spotlight, August 30, 2013
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Scappoose should still be a strong factor in league
By JOHN WILLIAM HOWARD
The Spotlight
New coach Nicholas Heffernan
understands that he’s stepping
into some hefty shoes at Scap-
poose High School. The Lady In-
dians have a proud history of
success, especially over the last
few years behind the offensive
brilliance of Ariel Viera, who will
be playing at the University of
Portland this fall.
“I’ve done my research,” said
Heffernan, who comes to Scap-
poose after extensive experience
playing and coaching at the club
level. With tryouts behind them,
he has been impressed with ma-
ny of the girls who played on ju-
nior varsity last year, saying that
they’ve stepped up to fill the po-
sitions left open by the seniors
who graduated last spring.
As per his style, the Indians
will look to be aggressive and at-
tack until the game is over. A one
goal lead isn’t enough for Heffer-
nan, who plans to push for a sec-
ond or third goal as insurance. A
focus on possession in addition
to the attacking mindset puts
pressure on the midfield, and the
team has adjusted accordingly.
Three midfielders will anchor
the center of the pitch with a
pair of mids that push forward
on the wings. Those wing players
help to spread the defense and
create space for a center striker.
“Right now we’re looking at a
4-5-1 with two fast wingers with
Eleanor (Jones) up top on her
own,” said Heffernan. “She can
take a touch and pass out wide,
and she can turn and she’s got a
ferocious shot.”
In the midfield are sophomores
Lucy Davidson and Natalie Muth.
The midfield may also see junior
Lauren Frank, but that is still to
be decided.
“Technically, she can pass and
move, so I’ve tried to convince
her to see what she can do in the
middle,” said Heffernan.
A solid, attacking midfield and
dangerous center striker aren’t
the only strong points that the
Indians have. The defense has
been able to stand up to the task,
which has been a relief to Heffer-
nan.
Quick Notes:
•Scappoose has a new coach and a
different focus this season.
•The team will miss Ariel Viera, but
has some accomplished veterans
returning.
•Lucy Davidson, Eleanor Jones,
Natalie Muth are all impact players.
•The team kicks off their season this
coming week.
Lady Indians lose MVP
Ariel Viera, but bring
back a wealth of talent
Nicholas Heffernan
Scappoose Girls Soccer Coach
Lucy Davidson has been playing club soccer much of the year and is expected
to be a big part of the Scappoose High girls soccer team this season.
SPOTLIGHT FILE PHOTO: JOHN BREWINGTON
See TRIBE GIRLS SOCCER, Page B20