Rio Hondo Women’s soccer team had a very successful season last year winning the Foothill Conference Title in their division; something they have worked hard to achieve in the past couple of years.

The Lady Roadrunners were more than ecstatic to bring the Conference Championship to Rio Hondo after being runner ups the season before and are extremely motivated to defend their title.

Sophomore defender and one of two of the 2015 team captains, Maritza Acuna said, “I am prepared and set to help support our team in defending our title. I am very excited to see what the future holds for our team. We have some very talented girls to help the team make history. We are ready to show that all our hard work from the end of last season until now will pay off. We are ready to prove ourselves as a force to be reckoned with, not only in our league but against all the teams we will be facing.”

Acuna played a huge role in the defense which helped them achieve fifteen shutouts and only allowed five goals in the 2014 season.

Sabrina Gonzalez, the second team captain says,”It’s so exciting to get another shot at being conference champions and we are going to give our best. Being able to be a part of such a great program and playing alongside a great group of girls is such a thrill.”

Coach Jennifer Tanaka feels the same way as she knows her girls have been training hard this summer to prepare to compete at their best.

Tanaka said,”The girls were very excited to start playing our games and we are very much looking forward to all of the improvements the team will be making throughout the season. We are confident that we have the tools to be able to compete with the top teams in our state.”

A number of Lady Roadrunners also won individual awards last season and made First Team All Conference.

Janeth Acuna was the 2014 Foothill Conference Player of the Year and was also fifth in the State for Assists.

Andrea Sanchez also made First Team All Conference, was the leading goalscorer in 2014, and will play an important role in the attacking position for the Lady Roadrunners this season as she looks to lead her team to victory.

Sophomore Christina Holguin and freshmen Elizabeth Miramontes will also be a huge part of the defense this season.

Other players of interest include the likes of sophomores Alexis Marinero and Sabrina Gonzalez who are expected to bring attacking options for the team.

Tanaka is also extremely confident in freshmen Erika Lizarraga and Kelly Richardson, who feels will be players to watch out for this season.

Tanaka is very thankful that all of her players are “healthy and ready to go for the season.”

They did not suffer any injuries during preseason and the girls are ready to come out stronger than ever.

*Update*

The Lady Roadrunners are currently 2-0 this season with two ties and will be taking on Moorpark Sept. 18 at home.