The Hermantown boys soccer team suffered two losses in its first three games, including a heartbreaking 2-1 Lake Superior Conference defeat at Duluth Marshall on Tuesday preceded by a 2-0 home loss against Benilde-St. Margaret's.
The Hawks lone win was a 9-0 romp against nonconference Mesabi East last Friday at beautiful Centricity Stadium.
Hermantown will look to improve to .500 with a conference victory against Proctor at 11 a.m. Thursday at Centricity Stadium.
The Hawks will visit Hibbing on Tuesday and before playing host to Cloquet next Thursday at 6 p.m.
"We have a well balanced team of seasoned players," Hermantown coach David Thompson Wednesday afternoon. "We return several good senior offensive players including Nate Hill, who was our leading scorer last year with 30 points (22 G, 8 A). Midfielders Tommy Flanagan and Sam Dobinson are also veteran players and captains along with Nate."
Hermantown also has an elite goalkeeper in Braden Fulda.
"Our entire field of play is balanced with athletic and talented players at all positions," said Thompson. "We also have the luxury of a deep bench and don't lose much with any of our substitutions. The group is highly coachable and a real joy to be around."
Thompson said his team has high expectations despite its difficult start.
"I feel we can build on some great opportunities that exist within our team and program framework," said Thompson. "The section and the conference will be tight, and I think there is pretty significant parity in both. There will be opportunities for success and growth for all of the teams. I believe our team has the potential to be among the best at the end of the season."