Lyndi Pack enters her third season as Warren County Middle School girls soccer coach with high aspirations for what she considers to be a well-balanced team.

“We have good talent on all levels, from strikers to midfielders to our defense,” said Pack. “Plus we have several girls who we can move around because they’re capable of playing anywhere on the field. We’ll be facing some stiff competition but I think we should have a good team.”

The Lady Pioneers have been practicing in the mornings and abiding by social distancing recommendations like the other local sports teams preparing for the fall season.

“We still can’t pass the ball,” said Pack. “Each player is supposed to use the same ball.”

That didn’t stop the girls from dribbling around the field, zig-zagging through cones, and taking shots on goalie Callie Jo Roberts, who appears to have solidified her role as the team’s starting keeper. 

Even with distancing requirements, coach Pack could still emphasize conditioning by having players race to the ball and do strength exercises like push-ups, sit-ups and body squats.

Pack said she’s pleased with the experience of her returning seventh- and eighth-graders and also likes the energy that’s been provided by the sixth-grade class which is new to the team.

The Lady Pioneers are scheduled play their home games at Warren County High School. They have two preseason scrimmages lined up already.

Coach Pack expressed sentiments that are indicative of the sports world in general.

“We’re hoping we get to play,” she said.