Aug. 20, 2012
SEATTLE - The Husky goalkeeping unit comes into the 2012 season with plenty of experience and talent. Between collegiate experience and academy time, three Huskies will be available to provide confidence and poise in between the posts this season. Returning for the Huskies this year is junior Spencer Richey. After finishing much of his freshman year as the starting keeper, Richey returned for his sophomore year starting every game. He was named Second-Team All-Pac-12 with the help of his career-high nine shutouts. Richey also placed third in the Pac-12 last year in save percentage with 76%. The starting keeper for the Huskies looks to anchor his back line this season with his two years of experience. "Spencer Richey had two great years and looks to become the top goalkeeper in the Pac-12 this year," said head coach Jamie Clark. "He is more than confident and very experienced, poised leader." Redshirt freshman Ryan Herman is in contention for playing time this year for the Huskies. The Sammamish, Wash., native transferred from Santa Clara. Though he never saw playing time, he has elite goalkeeping experience. Herman has been a part of the Men's National Team since he was 16 and represented the United States on the U18 National Team. He played with the Seattle Sounders FC Academy U18 team and was recently named to the Sounders U23 roster. The 6'7" goalkeeper is quick with soft hands, and the Huskies will look to utilize him when needed. "He's got great size and an incredible presence in front of the goal," Clark adds. "He's got a great future ahead of him." Rounding out the goalkeeper position is redshirt freshman Patric Pray. The Chandler, Ariz., native was the captain at Corona Del Sol High School in 2009 and 2010. He also played club soccer with SC Del Sol prior to Washington. "Patric was our second goalkeeper last season," said Clark. "He is a great shot stopper and is an overall very solid goalkeeper. Patric and Ryan are very capable backup goalkeepers. They are waiting in the wings and either would be a great starting goalkeeper if given the chance." The men will begin the 2012 season this Friday against Gonzaga at Husky Soccer Field at 5 p.m. Check back on Tuesday for a preview of the defenders. |
