POTSDAM -- After the most successful Liberty League season in team history, the Clarkson University Women's Soccer team is looking to surge further up the conference standings. In 2015, Clarkson returns 14 players that accounted for 14 goals and 12 assists in 2014.

Fifth year head coach Sarah Raymond has added 11 talented freshmen who can help to push the program to new heights.

The Golden Knights were picked to finish 8th in the Liberty League Preseason Poll. The team will open its season against Potsdam State on September 1st at Hantz Turf Field, a game that was originally set to be played across town.

In the back, three sophomores return hoping to improve on their impressive freshmen campaigns. Paige Spittler started all 17 games in her debut season, playing in various positions.

This season she will move to the center of the defense where she will team with classmate Courtney Black. Black played in all 17 games, starting 14 of them, and will be a leader in the backline. On the outside will be Meranda Turner, who started 12 of the 17 games she played in. Joining the sophomores in the backline will be incoming freshmen Samantha Wheeler and Victoria Goudreau. Fellow newcomers Dallas McHarris, Sabrina Sepowski, and Mia Fiacchi will provide depth for the defense.

Playing in the net will be two-year captain Anna Demasi. Demasi brings athleticism, leadership, and Liberty League experience to the position. Freshmen Nicole Zlotnick and Jordan Cahill will also be competing for minutes in the goal.

The midfield sees key contributors and captains Kanoe Eichholz and Nikki Carfi return. Eichholz was named a Liberty League Second Team All-Star in her sophomore campaign. She started in 16 of 17 games and finished with a goal and two assists.

Carfi finished as the leading scorer, bagging four goals and three assists. Tori Sailor and Caitlin Swanson will both make significant contributions to the athleticism in the middle. Returners Rachel Loecher and Aubrey Harris will provide experience and depth in the center of the field. Freshmen Carlee Casey, Caroline Bonin, and Kelli Grimes will all be looking to add to the midfield as well.

Up front, captain Lauren Flynn returns to lead the line. She scored three goals to go with an assist last season. Madison Kather, Briana Weber, and newcomer Summer Gillespie will all play key roles in the Golden Knights' scoring ability. Abby Grunisen and Lisa D'Auria provide athleticism and depth to the attacking line.

The Golden Knights were picked to finish 8th in the Liberty League Preseason Poll. They will open their season when they host Potsdam State on September 1st.