Outlook on the 2013 Men's Soccer Squad
WATERVILLE, ME – Thomas College men's soccer will look to remain at the top of the North Atlantic Conference (NAC) this year after an outstanding fifteen-win, championship-winning 2012 season. The Terriers are not only trying to repeat as NAC champions, but have their hopes set on making a run in the NCAA Tournament this season as well.
Head Coach Christopher Parsons 98' begins his third year coaching his alma mater and will be assisted by Michael Noblet and Tony Flye.
Last season Thomas earned the number one seed in the NAC regular season standings, entering the playoffs with high expectations and responded well with a victory over Green Mountain (4-0) in the NAC Quarterfinal. Then completing their championship season with comfortable victories over rival Maine Maritime (4-0) in the NAC Semifinals and Husson (4-0) in the NAC Championship.
This season, the Terriers have six returning seniors that will be returning to the fold. Mikkail Crockwell returns in net after being tabbed NAC Defensive Player of the Year a season ago, while First Team All-Conference selection Michael Hand will be back at full strength after an injury put a halt to an MVP season a year ago. Kyle Rabe, Paul Rechichi, Gunnar Shelton, and John Freese also return for their senior campaigns and will provide leadership on and off the field.
The Terriers welcome nine freshmen this year and two transfers that will add depth to the squad.
The first match of the season will be against William Patterson on Friday, August 30, whom the Terriers fell to in the 2010 NCAA Tournament, 2-1.
The first conference tilt of the season will be at Lyndon State, who Thomas defeated 3-1 last season. The first home match on the turf will be Friday, September 27 against Bowdoin under the lights at 7pm.
The team is full of young members that hope to build-up experience for later seasons. With great leadership from the veteran cast, the squad will be sure to remain strong and competitive for years to come.
