MOBILE, Ala. – After two weeks of intense preseason training, the University of South Alabama women’s soccer team will unofficially open its 2012 campaign versus USA soccer alumni at 7 p.m. on Saturday at The Cage.
 
The game will serve as a soft opening at home for the Jaguars, who will host Nicholls State the following Friday to begin non-conference play. Last year, the Lady Jags poured in five goals against the alumni, with returning midfielder Morgan Motes tallying one of them.
 
On his team’s current form heading into this weekend’s competition, head coach Mike Varga said, “The biggest difference this year, as opposed to the past two, is that we have a lot of returning players who have two years of experience. We’ve moved along a lot faster than we have in the past couple of years. We still have a long way to go, but I’m happy with our progress and I think we’re where we need to be at this point.”
 
Harsh seasonal rains led to a waterlogged surface before the Alumni Game at The Cage last year, but that didn’t stop several fans, parents and former Jaguar student-athletes from participating in USA’s annual unofficial opener.
 
“I’ve gotten confirmation from about 30 (alumni) saying they’re coming back,” explained Varga. “They’re actually talking a little smack that they’re going to come and compete well against us. Usually, in the first 10 minutes, they do a pretty good job and then fade the last 80, but it’s always fun to see the girls and the guys that played and have a history here. It should be a lot of fun, and hopefully the weather will hold off.”
 
All home soccer matches throughout the season will be free to all attendees. The Cage is located on Old Shell Road just east of Stanky Field.
 
For more information about South Alabama athletics, check back with www.usajaguars.com.  Season tickets for all Jaguar athletic events can be purchased by calling (251) 461-1USA (1872).