GIRARD – The 2012 high school fall sports season is just around the corner. In preparation for the upcoming season, the Albion News will preview a local sports program.

The Girard boys’ soccer team has steadily improved under the direction of fourth-year head coach Jason Tomilson. Despite a sub-.500 record during the 2011 season (7-10-1, 3-8-1), the YellowJackets have inched closer and closer to a playoff berth.
Girard will be young this season after the loss of Garrett Brown, Brenden Parson, James Geraci and John Martini to graduation.
The area of concern for Tomilson will be at the defensive end of the pitch. Fortunately the ‘Jackets will have Cody O’Brien back to be a leader on the defensive front. Sophomore Jared Orr will mind the net for Girard this season. The underclassmen will be relied upon to help a youthful defense.
The ‘Jackets return several key performers for the 2012 season, including Teddy Szyplik, Marcus Connors, Devin Mason, Corey Twitchell, Ryan Barlow, Orr and O’Brien.
The offensive load will fall on Mason and Twitchell, both of which showed extreme promise for putting the ball in the back of the net.
The only things getting in the way during of a successful 2012 season for Girard will be its youth and having perennial powers General McLane and Harbor Creek in Region 5.
Youth also is also a key component for the Girard girls’ soccer team. During the 2011 season the ‘Jackets compiled a 4-11-3 overall record and 1-9-2 region record under 12-year Head Coach Michael Frick.
Despite the subpar record, Girard will have to replace several key performers in including all-region first team player Erin Allen. Forward Bekah Edder will also be sorely missed. The recent graduate finished second on the team with seven goals and five assists.
With the loss of just three players to graduation, Girard will rely on Sydney Dunn, Taylor Tharp and India Boderocco. Dunn had a solid sophomore campaign finishing with five goals and five assists, while Boderocco was a second-team all-region defender in 2012.
With an infusion of youth and building of the success of a strong middle school program the ‘Jackets could potentially challenge for a playoff spot in Region 5.
To keep up with Girard soccer all season long, look for future editions of the Albion News.
Chris Roth may be reached at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or at (814) 756-4133.