It is the mark of an established sports program that even if you lose the majority of your starting team to graduation, you're still considered one the better teams in the conference.

That describes the Monroe Township High School girls soccer program, always a winner and always a contender for division (White) titles. Kathy Dillon, in her eighth season as head coach, expects that to be the case this season. So far, the Falcons are 3-1, and will move into the portion of their schedule, which includes matches against the usual GMC divisional opponents sprinkled with a few quality out-of-conference teams.

Monroe's most recent victory came Monday when the Falcons topped North Brunswick, 1-0, in overtime when Jenna Saunders lofted a shot from 33 yards.

"Despite our losses due to graduation," said Dillon, "we have a group of 11 seniors who lead us. The girls know it is going to take a lot of dedication, hard work and heart to regain our top position in the division. We finished second last year, but looking forward, we've set our minds on making each succeeding game more important than the last."

Another benefit of senior leadership has been Monroe's ability to take advantage of scoring opportunities at crucial points in the game. The Falcons have prevailed in a number of early-season games, which were up for grabs, the win Monday over North Brunswick being the most recent example.

Another close call occurred in the opener, when the Falcons notched the game's only tally against Woodbridge with 2:48 left in the contest. Ashley Kelly, a junior, scored the goal on an assist by senior Nikki Meyers. Sam Tallarine (senior) was solid in goal, registering 12 saves to preserve the shutout.

Defense has been a strength for Monroe thus far, and is expected to be what drives the Falcons this year. The team is led by Stephanie Nawracaj (senior), Vanessa Ragucci (senior-captain), Trisha Powell (junior), Emily Jarosiewicz (sophomore), and Savannah Nunn (senior). Others who defend include Allison Deitche (junior), Sarah Nale (junior), Caitlin Tehan (junior) and Caitlin James (freshman).

In addition to Kelly and Meyers on the front line, Rose Buffalino (senior), Nicole Russo

(junior), Ashley Batista (freshman) and Eva Vastardis (freshman) will see action.

The midfield is led by two valuable members of the team, Danielle Klecha (senior captain), and Jennifer Garavente (senior captain). Others who contribute are Saunders (senior), Alexa Appignani (junior), Tori Clayton (sophomore), Caroline Faroane (sophomore), and Valentina Pannullo (sophomore).

Madison Markulin (junior) backs up Tallarine in goal.

"We're a growing township and the increased numbers in the school have elevated our status to Group IV," said Dillon. "That places us at the toughest level of competition so that will be a challenge, especially when it comes time for the state playoffs, which is one of our goals."