Aug. 28, 2003

ABILENE, Texas - Hardin-Simmons' soccer team will open the Dan Heger era, Friday when it hosts the University of the Ozarks, Friday at 7 p.m. at Shelton Stadium.

The Cowboys are hoping to improve on last season's 10-6-1 record and return just seven players from last year. Junior all-region performer James Burton, who has 26 career goals, is the Cowboys top scoring threat. He was named the preseason ASC West Offensive Player of the Year.

Sophomore Brad Barham returns at sweeper after earning all-region honors as a freshman. He is tri-preseason ASC West Defensive Player of the Year along with newcomer Ryan Shaughnessy at goalkeeper. Shaughnessy was All-ASC last season at McMurry, before transferring when Coach Heger came from McMurry to Hardin-Simmons.

The Cowboys are expected to see several newcomers in the starting lineup.

"We are young, but we are cautiously optimistic," said Heger. "We have a lot of young talent and some of our experienced guys have really worked hard in the offseason. We will develop throughout the season and have a chance to be competitive in our league and hopefully beyond."