Entering his second year at the helm, Head Coach Kiko Magana is looking forward to building upon his first season and taking additional steps in the team's growth. Last year's team that finished 9-8-1 overall and 8-7-1 in the Mountain East Conference was the first since 2015 to finish above .500.
 
The Senators were selected as the MEC South Division's preseason fourth-place team in a vote of the league's coaches. Concord finished first in voting with 55 points (6 first-place votes), while West Virginia State was a close second with 52 points (4 first-place votes). Frostburg State is the MEC North's top team in the preseason poll.
 
Magana has reason to believe this year will be even better than last. The two top offensive weapons from a season ago return in Alexa Karsel and Madison Rose. Karsel led the team in points scored (30) and assists (10). Rose scored the second most points on the team (21) and the two both had 10 goals apiece. "Their dynamic play going forward, and experience will play a vital role in how successful we will be," Magana added.
 
With a large incoming class of freshmen, Magana adds depth to complement his returners. He was also quick to point out the experience transfer Gineth Martinez adds to the team. "With a big incoming freshman class, it was important to add an experience transfer," he said. "Gineth will play a pivotal role in our midfield. She comes to us with previous success and adds much needed college experience."
 
Building the roster and bringing in a large recruiting class does have its challenges and Magana admits that it will take some time for the team to develop its tactical play and chemistry on the field, but so far he has enjoyed seeing the team unity. "The unity within the squad is one of our many overall strengths and that is great to see," he said. "We return and add a lot of attacking flair, but it's the grit and pride that will hold us together and give us the chance to compete and win."
 
The future looks bright for the Senators and Magana is eager to get the regular season started. "We accomplished many things in 2022 that have been program first; winning record in MEC, making MEC Tournament and scoring the most goals and assists in the MEC. It's our aim to compete for the South Division Title and play for the Conference Tournament Title."
 
Magana also feels the team is eager to begin as they understand the goals and potential of the team. "Last year we were in conversation to compete in the MEC and this year it's our goal to extend that and make our mark as one of the best programs in the MEC. We plan to enjoy the journey together and be ready to begin the 2023 campaign."
 
D&E begins the 2023 campaign on August 31 at 7:30pm at Slippery Rock.
 
Their home opener will be at 1pm on Sunday, September 3 against UNC Pembroke and they open MEC play on September 10 at 1pm at the University of Charleston.