Head Coach: Rick Van Fleet, fourth year
Last Year: 4-12 overall, 1-7 3A Western Slope League
Key Returners: Tyler Boger, Jr.; Isaac Tigert, Jr.
Athletes to Watch: Nikolai Stammer, Jr.
Coach Rick Van Fleet is cautiously optimistic about his team as the 2019 soccer season opener nears at Grand Valley High School.
With several new faces out this year and a very young team, the Cardinals could find themselves in a rebuilding mode more often than not against the tough competition that presents itself each week in the 3A Western Slope League.
“This is a very young team, but I’m always optimistic and hoping for the best,” Van Fleet said. “We may face an upward battle at times, especially with how tough this league is each year. These guys could surprise some people, though.”
Van Fleet figures that Roaring Fork, Coal Ridge, and Delta should be the front runners in this year’s chase for the WSL Crown.
“This year is almost like trying to build a new program, as young as we are,” Van Fleet said. “But the kids are excited, working hard, and the future is bright for us.”
The Cardinals should be competitive in a tough 3A Western Slope League. The Cardinals won just one game in league play last year, but the experience is there this fall.