POTSDAM -- SUNY Potsdam women's soccer coach Tim Moody has announced that juniors Alissa Tischler (Potsdam) and Maggie Malinowski (Livonia) will serve as Bears captains for the upcoming 2011 season.

"Our success as a program comes down to players being motivated and wanting to better themselves," Moody said. "With these two captains we will continue to move forward as a team and maintain our progress toward our goals."

Tischler returns as captain after serving in the same capacity during the 2010 season, while Malinowski will replace graduating captains Kathleen Frear (Scotia, N.Y./Scotia-Glenville) and Kelsey Butz (Schenectady, N.Y./Schenectady).

"Maggie and 'Tisch' are excellent communicators," said Moody. "They clearly relay our message to their teammates, which helps us set and achieve team goals."

Tischler, a midfielder, started all 20 games for Potsdam this season, registering two goals and two assists. A veteran of 54 games with the Bears, the junior was a key contributor at both ends of the field.

"Tisch blossomed in her role as captain on the team this past year," Moody said. "She understands what it takes to get things done and everyday she shows the desire to win and be competitive. Alissa also brings humor to lighten things up when her teammates are feeling stressed."

Malinowski recovered from a broken leg in 2009 to play in all 20 games in 2010, starting 18. The stalwart defender has played in 40 games for Potsdam and chipped in two goals and two assists over her career.

"Maggie is liked by her teammates and respected for her contributions to the program," said Moody. "She has a 'can do' attitude and will encourage her teammates to excel. She leads by example and is one of the fittest players on the team. Like me, Maggie believes in the importance of strong team chemistry and that no one player is more important than the team."

In 2010, the Bears battled to a 10-10 record and a 1-8 mark in State University of New York Athletic Conference play. During the season, Potsdam posted winning streaks of three and four games, and recorded nine shutouts.

With a 2-1 victory over Oswego on Oct. 2, Moody became the school's all-time coaching leader in wins. The Bears open the 2011 regular season in early September.