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In 2013, Breakers forward Katie Schoepfer experienced a significant regression. Fresh off a seven-goal, six-assist WPSL season, the former Penn State Nittany Lion scored just twice for the Breakers, falling out of the Starting XI by season's end.
In 2014, however, Schoepfer returned to her reliable form, scoring four goals en route to a rebound season. On Wednesday, the Breakers resigned the gritty forward, locking her into a roster spot for the 2015 season.
Who will run beside Schoepfer next year? Though much of Tom Durkin's roster remains in flux following a disappointing 2014 campaign, the attack seems relatively stable. Sophmores Jazmine Reeves and Nkem Ezurike will continue to push for regular minutes, while fellow second-year player Mollie Pathman will look for more consistency on the attacking side of the ball. Schoepfer will serve as the tried-and-true veteran and, at just 25, will be looked upon to groom Durkin's blossoming talent.
In the off season, look for the Breakers to add another veteran forward, vying to add depth behind a somewhat-unpredictable crew of attacking players. This time, Durkin may want to add a forward with a longer shelf life; veteran Lisa De Vanna and well-traveled Colombian International Melissa Ortiz both departed before the midpoint of the 2014 season.
At the very least, his team will welcome the return of a franchise player.