Aug. 12, 2011

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COLLEGE PARK, MD. - This is part three 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.

Moving Lydia Hastings from the wide midfield spot to the left back position creates an opening, as does the graduation loss of Molly Dreska. But, head coach Brian Pensky still has a lot of talent to draw from to fill out his midfield in 2011.

"Our midfield will be strong again this fall," said Pensky. "We graduated Molly, who was a four-year starter; and we're looking at Lydia in the back - which leaves us with two holes to fill. Yet Danielle Hubka and Amy O'Sullivan rotated as starters last year, so that adds another returning starter to the mix."

Hubka has been an impact player since she arrived in College Park and can play either in the midfield or up top. In her two seasons as a Terp Hubka has scored nine goals, including four game-winners.

O'Sullivan has rapidly grown into one of the most steady players on the Maryland roster. The fittest student-athlete on the team, according to Pensky, she has the ability to be a 90-minute player if that were ever needed. Her 5-foot-10 frame also makes her a likely target for set pieces in the box.

Pensky is pleased with the other options he has as well, including a returning Becky Kaplan, who redshirted the 2010 season.

"Having Becky Kaplan back is another boost," said Pensky. "She is another solid attacking player that we can work in and her speed is just one thing that makes her an exciting player.

"Couple those players with Olivia Wagner's great spring, transfer Kristen Schmidbauer, and freshmen Cory Ryan and Alex Doody who can play in the midfield - and again, we're going to have plenty of options ... very good options."

One spot that Pensky can be comfortable with in the midfield is the center defensive midfield spot, which will once again be occupied by junior Domenica Hodak. The 2010 all-region selection can match-up with any midfielder in the country and brings a much-needed toughness to the Maryland line-up.

"Min is a rock for us and it's comforting knowing she will be lining up for us in the midfield again this season," said Pensky.