TopDrawerSoccer recognizes SHSU freshman duo
8/11/2016 3:42:00 PM | Soccer
HUNTSVILLE – The recent surge of the Sam Houston State soccer program is most noticeable in its on-the-field success. Off the field, recruiting efforts have been just as fruitful.
Two incoming freshmen, who join a class of 11, were named to the TopDrawerSoccer.com Winter High School State and Region Teams for their efforts closing out decorated high school careers.
Hannah Dupin was one of just 11 total players and four midfielders on the Texas-South list, which spotlights South Texas, including Austin, Houston, San Antonio and areas south of I-20. The Ridge Point High School product was All-District three straight years with the program.
“I think for us so far, she's had a good preseason,” head coach Tom Brown said. “She's a good strong athlete and does a good job getting forward. She typically played a little further forward in the past but we are looking to bring her more from the back to create attacking opportunities.”
Newcomer Hayden Oswalt, a Terry, Miss., native, also appeared on the prestigious list for the Southeast Region, which includes Louisiana and Mississippi. While at Clinton High School, Oswalt helped her team to three straight district championships as a three-time all-district honoree.
“She is very deceptive on the ball and does a great job disguising passes,” Brown said. “I think she will have a significant impact moving forward. She's had a terrific preseason so far. She has been able to come in and understand things that we will ask her to do as far as responsibility.”
The Winter High School State and Region teams are compiled by TopDrawerSoccer with consultation from coaches and media members from around the country. Players who make the state all-star list are eligible for the region all-stars.
“I think over the course of the time we've been here, we've been able to improve the players that are attracted to come to Sam Houston,” Brown said. “We are fortunate that two quality players have decided to further their education and play soccer for us.”
The duo, along with the entire freshman class, will play a key role in this season's success. The Bearkats graduated 10 seniors from a team that advanced to the Southland Conference Tournament finals a season ago but that does not change any expectations this year.
“I think in being able to get to the conference final, it provides them the confidence they can and should get there,” Brown said. “I think those players returning have commented that the incoming group of freshmen and transfers is the best we've ever had. I think they have gained a lot of confidence from the success late last year and are eager to get back to the point and hopefully have that opportunity again.”
Sam Houston hosts Houston in exhibition play Friday at 6:30 p.m. from Pritchett Field before opening the regular season one week later at Alabama. The Bearkats take on UTSA in the squad's home opener on Aug. 21 at 6:30 p.m.
