Current Release: September 11th, 2007 | Vol. XXIV Iss. 10

Record-breaking soccer season

by ozzie dhramapitaksook

adhramapitaksook@vwc.edu

A season complete with victories, records, and memories has unfortunately reached a halt. The Men’s Soccer team concluded an inspiring season, formulating a 17-4-1 overall record, which includes a 7-2 record in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC). The Marlins ended an accomplished season with a disappointing 3-to-1 loss against the University of Redland during the first round of the NCAA Division III Sectionals.

“I am overall pleased with a 17-4-1 record,” said first-year head coach Mike McFarland. “All of us were disappointed losing in ODAC’s, but we were fortunate enough to get the at-large bid to have a chance for Disney.”

Despite the loss in sectionals, the Marlins finished the season on a positive note. They experienced the round of 16 for the first time in team history out of 14 total NCAA appearances--not to mention starting the season on a dazzling 10-game winning streak.

“I thought we had a great season this year,” said goalkeeper Kyle Williams. “To make it as far as we did shows what our team was made of. The team never gave up, and I know that next year’s team should be even more promising.”

In addition, the Marlins recorded 17 victories for the third time in the past 10 seasons. This is only three wins shy of the record 20 victories set in the ‘91, ‘94 and ‘95 seasons. Sophomore forward Brandon Massie led the Marlins with 18 goals and nine assists.

“I’m proud of our guys, because they played with a great deal of energy and excitement throughout the season,” said McFarland. “There was an excellent bond within the team which made everyone come together.”

For the tenth time in team history, the Marlins finished first in the final regular-season standings. They ended ranked fourth in the South Region standings and No. 21 nationally.

As another season wrapped up, another group of seniors reflected on some unforgettable experiences. James Monastra, Kyle Williams, Mike Karr and Travis Cober all finished with exceptional careers. As Cober and Williams accepted the roles as leaders on and off the field, Monastra and Karr provided key minutes that kept the Marlins in constant control of the ball.

“We’re definitely going to miss the four seniors,” said McFarland. “I was extremely pleased with their dedication to the program over the past four years, along with the leadership they all brought to the team.”

As a first year head coach, McFarland brought in a new attacking brand of soccer combined with a higher level of energy for his players. His knowledge of the game and aggressive coaching style led to a year for the record books.

“Coach McFarland did a phenomenal job in his first season,” said Williams. “Before he came in, our program was lacking energy within in the team. The dedication he has for his players is remarkable. He is the type of coach this program always needed.”