FORT KENT, Maine (WAGM) – The UMFK women’s soccer team finished third last year. Coach Jermaine West knows what they have to do to win.

“Defense wins championships, so you have to have a clean game in the game,” said head coach Jermaine West. “The expectations I have for the team are very high, so they want to maintain that level, so we want to have a clean game in every game. So if you have a clean game and you score a goal, you either win or it’s a tie.”

The returning players believe they have what it takes to overcome the hurdle.

“This year we have a lot more players returning. I think we’re wiser and more mature. That will help us grow this season, be successful and come home with a ring,” said Anna McLaughlin.

“It starts in practice with communication, cooperation and mutual trust in all matters,” adds Nancy Martin.

The women’s team has many returning players this season, and assistant coach Isabel Kiledjian believes the mix of new and returning players could lead them to a championship title.

“We’re also getting some new players. I think if we just keep the same mentality, motivation and execution, we’ll be right where we were last year, hopefully even better,” said assistant coach Isabel Kiledjian.

It’s clear that this team’s only concern this year is reaching the championship game.

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