(Walnut, CA) The Mt. SAC Women's Soccer Team will begin the 2018 season on Tuesday, under interim head coach Kristen Purper.  The Mounties hosted cross town rival Fullerton College, on Tuesday.

Purper, a Mt. SAC assistant for seven years, takes over for Melinda Bowen who recently stepped down after 14 years as head coach.

"I am looking forward to continuing the legacy that my predecessors have paved for me," said Purper, a former Mountie who was team captain and a first team All-South Coast Conference selection in 2005-06.

"My mentors, Debbie Cavion, Deb Blackmore, Sally Cavion and Melinda Bowen have left such an incredible impact on the Mt. SAC Women's Soccer program over the years," replied Purper. "I plan on continuing the legacy."

Sophomore outside back Ashley Luevanos and freshman midfielder Casey Moore have been named captains for the upcoming season and the Mounties return six student-athletes.

Five of the first six matches (non-conference) will take advantage of the beautiful Mt. SAC Soccer Fields and will be played at home.

The Mounties will begin South Coast Conference North action in late September with the first of two rounds against Rio Hondo, Pasadena City College, Chaffey and East Los Angeles.

Rio Hondo was the undefeated SCC North Champion last season with an 8-0 record.

"My student/athletes are well aware of their responsibilities representing the program and Mt. SAC, along with the immense privilege of being a Mountie," added Purper. 

"As we come into 2018 with our team and solid captains Luevanos and Moore, we are more than ready to take on this season."

Follow Mt. SAC Women's Soccer on twitter @mtsacwsoccer

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For additional information, please contact the Mt. SAC Sports Information Office at 909.274.4630.