Nicholls head soccer coach Cindy Piper welcomed 20 student-athletes to campus Wednesday, as the women's soccer team begins pre-season fall camp in preparation for their upcoming season.

Among those reporting, include 11 returning players, as well as nine newcomers. Senior defender Ashley Bock is also returning to the squad after taking last season off.

"I am very excited and anxious to get our team back out on the field," said Piper. "We have a good mix of returning athletes as well as newcomers that are ready to compete, and I am looking forward to seeing how the team gels together."

The Lady Colonels met Wednesday afternoon for a team meeting and will go through pre-season physicals later in the evening. The squad will hold its first practice Thursday morning.

Nicholls will kick off the season at Louisiana-Lafayette on August 20 in an exhibition game. The Lady Colonels will begin the 2006 regular season by hosting Louisiana Tech on August 25 as part of the Nicholls Tournament. Game time is set for 4 p.m.