Sports Preview: Shenandoah Zeps Varsity Soccer
By Shawn Stritz
The winds of change are blowing through Shenandoah as the eagerly awaited second season of Zeps soccer approaches. Head Coach Shawn Stritz, who led the team to a commendable inaugural season last year, is raring to guide his team to new heights on the soccer field. With a remarkable surge in team size compared to the previous year and the return of key players, the Shenandoah Zeps are all set for an exhilarating journey in their second season.
SHS Soccer Coaching Staff, Left to Right: Head Jr. High Coach Billy Mobley, HS Assistant Coach Tucker Sebring, Head Varsity Coach Shawn Stritz, HS Assistant Coach Troy Neff, Jr. High Assistant Coach Scott Stritz.
The return of soccer to Shenandoah High School has sparked a growing interest in the sport within the community. Head Coach Stritz is particularly pleased with the growing number of athletes who have decided to be a part of the soccer program this year. With a roster that now boasts a robust 24 athletes, the Zeps are showcasing the increasing popularity of soccer in the region. This substantial rise from the previous year’s squad of 14 players is a testament to the sport’s growing influence and the enthusiasm it has ignited among young athletes.
“The response from the community has been overwhelming,” Coach Stritz said with a sense of pride. “It’s a clear sign that soccer is finding a strong foothold in Shenandoah.”
While the increased roster size brings about healthy competition for starting spots, Coach Stritz emphasizes the importance of fostering a sense of camaraderie among the players. Each member of the team will have the opportunity to shine, contributing their unique strengths to the Zeps’ collective effort.
With the start of the new season, the Zeps are also benefiting from the continuity provided by their returning players. Ten skilled athletes, who earned their letters during the inaugural season, will be the backbone of the team’s effort. These returning players bring with them a wealth of experience and familiarity with the team’s style of play, which Coach Stritz believes will provide a solid foundation for the newcomers.
“Our returning players understand what it means to wear the Zeps jersey,” Coach Stritz emphasized. “Their experience will help us build on the foundation we laid in our first season.”
As the Zeps gear up for their second season, Coach Stritz and his coaching staff are focused on refining the team’s approach, both on and off the field. Training sessions are geared toward honing the players’ skills and fostering a sense of unity and sportsmanship among them. The aim is to create a team that not only excels in performance but also upholds the values of the Shenandoah community.
“This is a pivotal moment for our soccer program,” Coach Stritz remarked. “We want to build a legacy that reflects the dedication and determination of our players.”
SHS Varsity Soccer Captains, left to right, Savannah Irvin, Andrew Neff, Ethan Stritz, Braiton Efaw
As the countdown to the opening match begins, the excitement among soccer enthusiasts in Shenandoah is palpable. With an expanded roster and a strong core of returning players, Coach Shawn Stritz and the Shenandoah Zeps soccer team are primed for their second season. Their journey promises to be a thrilling one, filled with growth, camaraderie, and a determination to make a mark on the soccer landscape once again.
Fans can stay updated on the latest news and developments of the Shenandoah Zeps soccer team by following “Shenandoah Zeps Soccer” on Facebook and @ZepsSoccer on Twitter. Let’s rally behind the Zeps as they embark on another exciting season of soccer excellence!
