Tough competition, camaraderie help CSB soccer gear up for the 2022 sea

The CSB soccer team kicked off their season with a road trip this year, heading out to Virginia to participate in a two-day tournament hosted by Virginia Wesleyan University. The Bennies lost both games by a 1-0 score, the first against the No. 1 ranked team in Christopher Newport, and the second against No. 10 ranked Virginia Wesleyan.

After their trip to Virginia, the Bennies returned home to face the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, winning 2-1. They claimed another victory against Luther College with a final score of 4-1.

CSB junior Lindsay Mueller plays defense for the Bennies, and she noted that the recent tournament in Virginia was a great experience as they faced two of the top 10 ranked teams.

“There is no better way to start the season than by playing some of the toughest competitors that we will face,” she said.

This is a positive sign for the Bennies, as they were competitive throughout the game, losing by just one goal in each. Mueller also said that the team’s ultimate goal is to win the MIAC and produce as many wins as possible throughout the season. Still, more importantly, she is looking for the team to have a great bond with one another as the season progresses.

“Each time we take the field, we are finding ways to connect better and gain the chemistry needed to come out on top.” she said.

CSB senior goalkeeper Paige Kahlmeyer was ecstatic about the upcoming season and was excited to see what this new Bennie squad could bring to the table.

“This year I feel a title coming on and a year that will make memories forever,” Kahlmeyer said.

This Bennie team is certainly capable of racking up wins and will be looking to seniors like Kahlmeyer to inspire the new group of Bennies.

“As I enter my senior year, I hope to leave behind a positive influence like the seniors did for me when I was a freshman,” Kahlmeyer said. “I hope the future and current Bennies continue to work hard at becoming who they want to be, whether it is a nurse, teacher or business owner.”

Kahlmeyer emphasized the great chemistry this team has and is looking forward to creating a strong and cohesive bond with all her teammates. Chloe Miller, a CSB senior who plays forward for the Bennies, looks to help lead her group to the ultimate goal this year: winning the MIAC.

“This has been a goal of mine since I was a freshman, and I believe we will make it there this year,” she said.

The aforementioned bond was furthered in Virginia Beach. The team stayed at an AirBNB and established strong and lifelong friendships. They are hoping that the relationships help them on the field and improve trust and confidence in each other throughout the season.

As Miller enters her final season as a Bennie, she thanks those who made this possible and helped elevate her fantastic college career on and off the field.

“I’m so thankful to be part of this team and for the opportunity to play at CSB, with amazing teammates and coaching staff,” Miller said. “I’m also appreciative of the opportunity to play with my younger sister [Olivia Miller] and will never take a moment of that for granted.”

The Bennies look to take down St. Mary’s University at home this Saturday, Sept. 17, at 1 p.m.