When Kori Dionne became the girls soccer coach at Nokomis four seasons ago, Megan Perry, Emiliee Reynolds and Brynn Cardozo were freshmen. Four years later, the Warriors have made two trips to the Eastern B tournament and earned eight wins in three consecutive seasons. In 2011, the Warriors went 8-5-2, losing in the Eastern B prelims.

“Those three seniors really wanted to make sure this year was special for them and the team,” Dionne said. “On and off the field, they were a team and it made a big difference. Our leadership started with them as freshmen.”

For her team’s solid season, Dionne has been named the Morning Sentinel Girls Soccer Coach of the Year. Madison’s Mike Herrick and Mt. Blue’s Fred Conlogue were also considered.

After Nokomis went 2-14-0 in her first season, Dionne went searching for coaching help. She displayed a willingness to listen to anyone who would share knowledge.

“I have had help with the program. We’ve had Brazilian coaches in the past two years in preseason and that has really helped,” Dionne said. “Plus, I have talked with others about coaching. I was never afraid to ask questions.”

Dionne focused on teamwork and getting her players to develop relationships with each other, which showed on the field, especially in crucial situations.

“This group really gets it,” Dionne said. “They support each other all the time and it makes for a great feeling on the field.”

Nokomis returned 10 of 11 starters this season and realized it could put something special together. It showed, as the Warriors put together a solid season, which included a win over perennial Eastern B power Winslow.

“The girls picked up where they left off last year,” Dionne said. “They really started to click, many of them will be back next season.

“We have a group of girls who want to be taken seriously as soccer players,” she concluded. “They have dedicated their time to make that happen.”