Adam Ladage is new to Federal Way High School this year, but it isn’t unfamiliar territory. Before now, he was an assistant coach for the Auburn boys JV soccer team.

Ladage takes over for Jason Baumgardt this year as head coach for the girls soccer team, a first for him.

“It is my first year and they are completely new to me,” Ladage said.

Ladage was hired last spring. He had a chance to get familiar with the teammates over the summer during the optional summer training.

Most of the players participated, and Ladage was pleased with what he saw. Returning players like Madison Campbell and Ashton Rigney brought as much talent and determination to practice as ever before, he said.

“We have a very good mix, both new talent and returning. So far we are meshing really well,” Ladage said.

He has had a lot of help from the entire team. Carly Nixon, returning assistant coach for the team, has been a big help in communicating with the players.

“She’s been bridging the conversation,” Ladage said.

The newer players are stepping up to the challenge, and the returning players are taking initiative to be leaders.

“We have a good group of upperclassmen who are going to have to be leaders on and off the field,” Ladage said.

The team’s first game will be at home on Tuesday, Sept. 8.