GRAND FORKS -- Rachael Loomis didn't need a reminder of how the University of North Dakota soccer season ended last fall.

"I thought I could get it to the back of my head and get ready for this season," Loomis said of UND's loss via penalty kicks in the Great West Conference championship. "But after watching the Women's World Cup and the U.S.A. losing in a penalty kick shootout, it really stung hard and brought back some memories. It also motivated me to get ready for this season to come out with a different result."

UND looks motivated on the field, during this week's first few practices. The young team appears charged, speedy and athletic.

A key for the Fighting Sioux this year will be the start of the season. After a slow start, UND ended well in the lead up to the conference championship.

"I think we're going to have a way better start because we're much more confident and much more prepared," junior Sheri Stapf said. "We have a lot of talent on the team."

With a strong start, UND hopes to build on its confidence and get to the championship game again. This time, however, with a different result.

"We're going to come out right from the start this year," senior Kelsey Zachman said. "I know everyone wants it, and we'll finish this year, for sure."