Clovis Sidekicks’ Exclusive Coaches’ Interview
Jaime Rios
Staff Writer – Clovis Sidekicks
(Clovis, CA – 5/1/11) With the Clovis Sidekicks’ season opener less than three weeks away, I had a moment to sit down with coaches Erik Pottorff and Jan-Erik Paris of what Sidekick fans should expect this coming season…
Q1: When it comes to the Clovis Sidekicks, what do you feel are the key aspects on the squad that will make them contenders for a playoff spot this season?
Erik: Well I feel that our team possesses a high-powered offense. To begin with, we have lots of speed on the outside and our backs as well.
Jan-Erik: Adding to what Erik said, we also have a solid midfield that will support our high-powered offense as well as our defense. We have a few seasoned players who are experienced and have played in the WPSL last season and will know what to expect this coming season.
Q2: What have you (Erik and Jan-Erik) done thus far to prepare the Sidekicks both physically and mentally for their season opener against Claremont?
Erik: We’ve had structured practices geared to prepare these girls for their WPSL opposition. Once it gets closer to game-time, we’ll definitely go over more technical aspects and getting the whole squad involved since we have more players coming back from their respective colleges.
Q3: What do you (Erik and Jan-Erik) think has been the most difficult part in terms of getting the Sidekicks mentally prepared for their season opener?
Jan-Erik: The biggest issue has been getting the girls who didn’t play on the Sidekicks last year, to realize that they are going to be playing at a higher level like never before. This league (WPSL) is very physical and you have to be mentally strong to perform well. It’s just a matter of getting some of the girls to realize this so they can be prepared for their season opener in a few weeks.
Q4: So which players specifically should Sidekick fans keep an eye out for this season?
Erik: There are too many players to mention so it’s really difficult to say, but looking back from last season, Anessa Patton, last season’s top goal scorer in the league, is definitely a threat.
Jan-Erik: We also have new signings such as Lynn Williams who also pose an attacking threat.
Counting down the days until the season opener on May 21st, it is clear that the Sidekicks want to make an immediate impact in the WPSL this season. It will be interesting to see whether the Sidekicks can improve upon their 6-6 record from their inaugural season and make a playoff appearance.
Also worth noting, tickets go on sale on May 13th for the home opener against the Claremont Stars on the 21st with kickoff beginning at 1pm.
For more information regarding the Clovis Sidekicks, visit www.facebook.com, www.twitter.com, and search under the Clovis Sidekicks Women’s Soccer Club.
For more updates and related news regarding the Clovis Sidekicks, visit www.wpsl.info and https://sites.google.com/site/clovissidekicks/home.
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