The LHU women's soccer team will open the 2017 season at home on Saturday, September 2 at 1 p.m. when the Bald Eagles host conference-rival Clarion University.
 
Setting the stage:
The Bald Eagles will waste no time jumping into PSAC play as Saturday marks their season-opener, home-opener and conference-opener. Last season, LHU beat Clarion 3-2 on the road, thanks to goals from three returners including Jordon Shoff, Gabby Kishbaugh and Janelle Swartz.
 
A look back:
The 2016 season was the first for LHU under the direction of head coach Kathy Brown and Brown led The Haven to immediate success. Last season, Lock Haven finished 7-10 overall (6-10 PSAC). The seven wins were the most since the 2008 season and LHU closed the season on a two-match win streak.
 
All-Region returner:
Highlighting last season was Marah Foltz who was named an All-Region pick as a true-freshman.
 
Scoring goals:
The Bald Eagles return 18 of 20 goals scored last season, thanks in part to Foltz (6 goals) and fellow rising-sophomore Hayleigh Swam (5 goals). The duo combined for 11 goals as rookies.
 
New faces:
Haven fans will see plenty of new faces on the pitch in 2017 as Lock Haven's roster features seven true-freshmen.
 
The road ahead:
With the PSAC featuring a total of 17 women's soccer programs, the Bald Eagles first 10 matches of the 2017 season will come against conference teams.
 
Up next:
The Bald Eagles will head to perennial PSAC contender Kutztown on Wednesday, September 6 for a 4 p.m. match.