Expectations for this year’s soccer team are simple: One game at a time, coach Rob Marinaro said.

After a heart-breaking loss in last season’s Mid-American Conference title game, the team and coaches remain positive and confident for further success this season and pride themselves on hard work.

“It’s a brand new season and a brand new team,” Marinaro said. “Each game we are going to try and be the hardest-working team on the field.”

The Flashes have already battled some tough non-conference opponents including Ohio State in the season opener, and recently Hawaii. Both games were on the road.

“Hawaii was a great experience,” Marinaro said. “They have a fantastic team and great team speed.”

Marinaro added playing such tough teams allows Kent State to raise its own level of play.

Coach Marinaro said he is pleased with the high work rate of his team, especially the senior class.

“Our seniors are doing a very nice job of stepping up for us,” Marinaro said. “They are hard working and lead by example.”

In addition to playing some great teams in Hawaii, the girls also got a good chance to bond with each other during the trip, Marinaro said.

“Overall it was a wonderful experience and one you don’t get very often,” Marinaro said.

Traveling a lot is something the team has to get used to.

“Traveling is an adjustment you have to get used to,” Marinaro said. “Playing in different surroundings, and playing different teams.”

Despite all of the traveling the team does, Marinaro never worries about his team off the field or in the classroom. The team rarely misses class because many of the games are played on Fridays and Sundays.

The Flashes travel to Wright State this weekend, and return Sunday to host Youngstown State.

Contact soccer reporter Steven Voicik at [email protected].