Sorenson thriving in Edwards’ system

After a career-altering injury and a difficult initial season back, senior Jessie Sorenson is now leading the Gonzaga women's soccer team on the offensive attack.

"Jessie just gets it," women's soccer head coach Amy Edwards said. "She understands the need to score goals, and she's really shown dedication this season."

The forward, originally from Salt Lake City, Utah, started her freshman year with Gonzaga in fall 2006. After appearing in 14 matches, starting two, and scoring two goals on the season, Sorenson broke her ankle at the end of her freshman season.

"It was really rough," Sorenson said. "It changed everything for me."

Sorenson then received a medical redshirt for her sophomore year, during which time she underwent two surgeries on her ankle.

Sorenson returned for the 2008 season. Though she appeared in 15 matches and picked up her first career assist in a win over Eastern Washington University, Sorenson had no goals on the season.

"Returning after my injury was difficult," Sorenson said. "It was like being a freshman again, and trying to re-learn all that stuff."

This season Sorenson has found her stride, and is currently tied with sophomore Sarah Rhodes for team high in goals scored, with four. Each of Sorenson's goals has ended with a Gonzaga win.

"I am lucky and grateful to be here and healthy for this season," Sorenson said. "I tripled my career stats within the first five games of this season."

Sorenson's first goal came in the season opening 3-0 win over Montana University. Her other three goals have all come in the final minutes to seal up victories.

"Jessie's goals are effort goals," Edwards said. "They're nothing flashy. She just gets it done when we need it."

Sorenson's latest score sealed the 3-1, conference victory over San Francisco on Oct. 23.
Despite Sorenson's career-high number of goals this season, the team has had a difficult time on the road, with a 2-10 overall away record.

"We've had some highs and lows this season and our lows have often come on the road," Edwards said.

In addition to hard losses on the road, the team, which is currently 8-11, has also had to adjust to a new coaching staff. Last March, Edwards took over after former head coach Shannon Stiles, who coached the team for 10 years, retired.

"There's been a change in system and coaching philosophy," Edwards said. "Jessie and the other seniors have really welcomed that change."

"I think it is always difficult to have a coaching change. Shannon and Amy have very different styles," Sorenson said. "I think my style of play and Amy's vision align. Overall, I think it was a good time for a change. Transition is hard, but I think we worked to make it successful."

Sorenson credits not only her health but also the coaching style for her improvements this season.

"I absolutely think that the style of play that our coaches have us playing is the reason why we have been scoring more often," Sorenson said.

Despite being eligible to play in the 2010 season due to her medical redshirt, Sorenson has decided to graduate with her class in the spring.

"My body's just had enough," Sorenson said. "I would love to play another year, but its just time to let myself rest."

A public relations major, Sorenson is not sure what she wants to pursue after graduation, but does say that she would, "love to do something in the sports field."

Sorenson and the rest of the women's soccer team will close out their regular season this Saturday when they host Santa Clara at 1 p.m.