The Pratt Community College women's soccer team has a new look this season. With new coach Ashley Burnett at the helm, the Blue and White look to lay the foundation of the program for years to come.

"It's going to be a challenging first year just because we are trying to rebuild the program," Burnett said. "A lot of things need to change. We are looking to improve from last year. I keep telling the girls the only way is up. My three goals are to concede less, score more, and less injuries."

The 2016 season was a struggle for the PCC women's soccer program. A young team from the start, injuries plagued Pratt all season long. After the recruiting season for the 2017 team the Beavers have a good mix of sophomore talent with a core of freshmen. The battle hardened sophomores are accepting the leadership roles by stepping up on the field.

"I have a lot of respect for the sophomores after their tough first year," Burnett said. "The ones that came back are strong mentally and ready to go out on a high and improve on last year. A lot of them have stepped up and they are ready for the change as well. They have bought in."

One of the concerns heading into this season was who would command the defense between the pipes for the Blue and White. Returner Brittany Smith stepped up to fill the role. Smith started 10 games for the Beavers in 2016 and had 179 saves in 12 games of action.

"We look for the midfielders and defense to keep shots off goal," Burnett said. "That's always what we want. Brittany has stepped up as a keeper. She has experience from last year as a goal keeper and has sacrificed her out field playing time to be our starting keeper. We are grateful for her."

PCC women's soccer starts the season on the road against Rose State before their home opener against Coffeyville Community College on Sunday Aug. 27. Kickoff for the home opener is at 3 p.m.

"I tell the girls we always take one game at a time," Burnett said. "As long as we focus on our goals and what we hope to accomplish, hopefully we are rewarded for it in the long run."