Cape girls’ soccer squad is optimistic heading into 2024 season

Cape soccer fans were treated to a run to the state title game by the boys' team last fall, and now it's the girls' turn to dribble, pass and volley in Legends Stadium.

“One of our goals this year is to keep up the intensity,” said senior Ava Dolan. “We split our season into thirds so we can look at the first five games and see what we should be able to do.”

The Vikings will be tested right out of the gate as they travel to Sussex Academy Monday, March 18, to take on a Seahawks squad with Division II title aspirations. 

“I think we’re all excited for the whole season as a team,” said Haylie Rogers. “We all have a good background, so we’re all ready to compete and meet our goals this year.”

Following a trip to Smryna Tuesday, March 26, Cape will play its home opener against Brandywine Thursday, March 28. Cape believes its offense will be a contributing factor in wins.

“We’ve got a pretty good attack with Cadence McMahon, Emily Cook, Ava Brown and Shannon Rath,” said Cape coach Patrick Kilby. “If we can find some rhythm in the attack, we’re going to score a lot of goals this season.”

The girls will travel to North Carolina for a pair of games in mid-April. After their return, they’ll host Caesar Rodney Tuesday, April 23, when they hope to build a winning streak against their Henlopen North rival.

“I’m looking forward to Caesar Rodney, because last year was the first time we beat them in over 20 years,” said senior Shannon Rath. “It would be really cool to beat them again.”

“We’re relying on a seasoned group of seniors,” Kilby said “They’ve been together for many years now, even before high school. They’re all really good friends, so we’re relying on a high level of camaraderie and togetherness.”

Kilby said the expectations for his team are to surpass what they did last year and qualify for the state tournament. 

“It’s about having a businesslike mentality, having the entire group focused and goal-oriented,” Kilby said.