By Juan Carlos Maygua
The NWSL is weeks away from their opening game, and teams are adding their respective final touches to start the season as best as possible. With a FIFA fixture scheduled this month, many of the teams will have to start the season without one player in their respective squads. Sky Blue FC will see their forward Evelyne Viens join the Canadian National team for their respective fixtures. It’s no secret that this summer’s Olympics in Tokyo will take a toll on the league, but I’m sure it’s no issue, as they all want to bring recognition when the competition concludes.
Sky Blue FC is ready to start the season after obtaining the victory over Washington Spirit, in their final preseason game. Head coach Freya Coombe gave her insights on the outcome of the game and the start of the season. “It was good for us to get the result, being on the road to get a bit more variety into our pre-season preparations, as well as identifying areas to improve. Pleased with the direction, I feel like it’s an upward direction for this group, looking forward to getting going in the Challenge Cup”.
Defender Caprice Dydasco spoke about her return to the team after being sidelined due to an injury. “It’s been a long journey so I’ve enjoyed the process of getting strong, really just getting back into playing and learning the style, last year I didn’t get to play so I got time to learn the style the team wanted to play. I wanted to impact the team any way I could to be back in. I’m a warrior so I didn’t want to hold up the team in the beginning, but now I’m more comfortable and feeling more confident week by week. The staff has been really good in incorporating me, giving me the confidence to play. I’m excited and ready to compete”. She also emphasized the importance of depth the team has this upcoming season, something that could make a difference in the long run.
The competition within the squad will showcase the talent that Sky Blue FC possesses this season. After 10 weeks of preparation and a former NWSL opponent, the team and players aim for big things. The first objective? The Challenge Cup. On a personal level, I’m excited to cover the team this season, they have a lot to offer and it also gives me more room to grow alongside the beautiful game.