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

Photo courtesy hrpiranhas.com

Piranhas join Marlins at Wesleyan

by ozzie dhramapitaksook

addhramapitaksook@vwc.edu

A diverse blend of men and women across the nation and around the world has gathered once again for a great season of intense semi-pro soccer. Fortunately for Virginia Wesleyan, the opportunity of hosting the red, white, and black colors of the Hampton Roads Piranhas has returned after four years playing at the Sportsplex in Virginia Beach.

“Everyone is so excited,” said Marcie Laumann, general manager of the Piranhas. “The players love playing at Wesleyan because it is a great field, has an electric atmosphere, and the fans enjoy it.”

The Piranhas are an American soccer team, originally founded in 2006 as the Virginia Beach Submariners associated with the United Soccer League First Division franchise, the Virginia Beach Mariners. The team is a member of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League, known as the PDL. This is the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid and includes both a men’s and women’s team.

Over the years, a number of Wesleyan soccer players have taken part in the summer experience. Seniors Laura Jackson, Missy Kuhns and Lindsey Williams played for the Piranhas in previous years and can attest to how challenging the league becomes.

Playing on the college team and then for a new group of teammates can be difficult because of rebuilding the chemistry among new players.

“The style of play is much faster,” said Kuhns. “Also, playing with a group of girls from all over the country and the world will take time to build up chemistry. The fans are amazing and the whole atmosphere is more professional.”

Although the team is still in the tryout process, everyone is looking forward with a positive outlook for what the summer has to offer. Last year, the men’s team put together their first undefeated season, followed by winning both the division and conference titles. The women’s team completed only their second losing season in nine years.

Beginning May 10, Wesleyan will host the Piranhas season opener. Hundreds of fans are expected to attend games throughout the summer. The Piranhas’ games create activity on campus in the summer and allow for a perfect family event. These games will also strengthen the relationship the school has with Beach FC, according to Athletic Director Joanne Renn.

“The advantages of hosting the Piranhas outweigh the disadvantages,” said Renn. “Our biggest concern is the wear and tear of the field. There is only a six-week turnaround for the grass to come back for the start of next season’s practices. However, this will generate revenue for our school and present opportunities for assistant coaches to work the games. The exposure that Wesleyan will receive will be huge for the school.”

The Piranhas are comprised of more than just college athletes. Notable former players include former professional women’s soccer players, Olympic and World Cup players, and also three men who were recently drafted to the MLS.

Continuing on towards the end of July and possibly the playoffs, the Piranhas will play 12 home events, including five doubleheaders. The Piranhas are grateful to Wesleyan for such a great place to play and hope to benefit from the electrifying atmosphere at Foster Field. Fans should enjoy being close to the team and to the action.