Aug. 10, 2011

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COLLEGE PARK, MD. - This is part two of a seven-part series that will preview the 2011 Maryland women's soccer team and season fans will be introduced to many of the key offensive and defensive players, potential impact newcomers and a look at one of the Terps' most challenging schedules ever.

McDowell made the switch from wide midfield to wide back look easy last season as the Plano, Texas, native registered career highs in points (18) and assists (12). Maryland head coach Brian Pensky could look for lightning to strike twice. Last spring he moved wide midfielder Lydia Hastings to the left back spot and Pensky was encouraged with the results.

"About midway through the spring," recalls Pensky, "we shifted Lydia Hastings to left back, and she did quite well. She is a good 1v1 defender; she is composed on the ball; and she can get up and down all day, therefore giving us a real attacking presence down that flank."

For the other opening on the back line, Pensky didn't need to look very far to find a talented player with plenty of experience at center back for the Terps.

"In terms of replacing Deegan, we can't forget that Skyy Anderson started 17 games for us as a center-back in 2009, and another 11 or so as a right back in 2010, so her experience is very attractive ... in addition to being an excellent athlete," said Pensky.

But Hastings and Andersons aren't Pensky's only options on the backline. Junior Megan Gibbons saw significant time at right back last season and could be an option there again this year. Upperclassmen Kristen McAfee, Kayla Clarke and Bailey Bodell have trained hard are just chomping at the bit to get their chance. Pensky said he feels great about all of his options, which also freshman Shade Pratt, who has terrific speed, and brings experience as an attacking wide back.

The one sure thing for Pensky on the back line is senior Mallory Baker, who has started every game of her college career and was an all-region selection in 2009. She will certainly be the backbone of the Terps' back line this season.