After coaching 17 seasons for Cherry Hill East more than a decade ago, Troutman is back coaching the girls’ soccer team with hopes of returning the program to prominence.
Cherry Hill East girls’ soccer 2016 season preview’
Last season: The Cougars were able to improve on a rough 2014 season, going 5–12–1. Cherry Hill East peaked in mid-October with a 5–7–1 record before losing their final four regular season games. They qualified for the South Jersey Group IV tournament, but were eliminated in the opening round by the eventual sectional champion, Shawnee High School.
Returning players: Senior Jordan Madrid and junior Nicole Hammerquist are strong returning midfielders who will anchor the team at that position. The Cougars have a number of talented young players such as sophomores Lexi and Ronnie Schaffer, both of whom are returning starters. Junior goalkeeper Samantha Bourne will be back after missing part of last season due to injury. Sophomore Emma Stopek is also back at goalkeeper for Cherry Hill East. Junior Kayla DeGuzman is expected to be back soon after suffering an injury during the summer. The Cougars also will have senior Alyson Skloff stepping into a bigger role this season at back.
New players: Senior Sara Messinger did not play for the Cougars last season, but has returned to the team this year. Head coach Lee Troutman believes she will be a nice addition to the midfield.
Key games: Playing in the always-competitive Olympic Conference American Division means the Cougars will have some tough games right off the bat. They will open the season against 2015 South Jersey Group IV finalist Eastern on Sept. 8. Their home opener will come against another tough school, Lenape High School, on Sept. 12. Meetings with defending South Jersey Group IV champion Shawnee high School will take place at Shawnee on Sept. 28 and at home on Oct. 19.
Season Outlook: Troutman has returned to Cherry Hill East after last coaching the program in the late 1990s. He said the team is responding well to the culture he is implementing into the program. With a lot of player without varsity experience entering the year, the team is building for the future.
