BOSTON, Mass. -- Simmons soccer will add 15 new faces to its roster as the Sharks prepare for the start of their 2012 season. After returning to the Great Northeast Athletic Conference tournament in 2011, Simmons will look to build upon their success from last season by preparing both physically and mentally for each match.

The Sharks will return a talented group with senior captain Justine Beauchamp (Exeter, Mass.) leading the team with her strong play in the midfield. Senior Ally Ayotte (Litchfield, N.H.) will bring speed and aggressiveness and her versatility will make her a threat all over the field. Junior striker Desh Perera (Reading, Mass.) will continue to cause havoc for defenders with her speed and tenacity on the front line, while junior Katie McCarthy (Falmouth, Maine) will utilize her speed and ability to read the game to provide consistency on defense for the Sharks.

After losing starting goaltender Ashely Wheeler (Nashua, N.H.) to graduation, the Sharks have two freshmen, Briana Hayes (Manorville, N.Y.) and Amber Verill (Windham, Maine) battling for the starting spot. In addition, the Sharks are looking to newcomers Ali Berkman (Natick, Mass.) and Victoria Russo (Braintree, Mass.) to make an impact in the midfield, and Greer Gilbert (Falmouth, Mass.) to add depth to the attack with her speed. Lindsey Smith (Gorham, Maine) and Melissa DiTraglia (Cranston, R.I.) will work to be competitive for starting spot.

"Our staff is looking forward to the 2012 season. IT is a new beginning and a fresh start for our team. We are confident that although we are young, the leadership within the team will create a strong chemistry while integrating 15 new players into our roster," said head coach Erica Mastrogiacomo.

The Sharks will face a competitive non-conference schedule with four teams from last season's NCAA tournament, including SUNY New Paltz who advanced to the sweet sixteen. Simmons will open the 2012 season on Saturday, September 1st at MIT at 4:00 p.m.