The Saginaw Valley State University mens’ soccer team is hoping that last year’s historic season carries over into the 2013 campaign. The Cardinals entered the postseason tournament ranked no. 12 in the nation, yet they marched to the Division II national championship game, where they fell to Lynn University 3-2.
“Last year was a special year,” SVSU head coach Cale Wassermann said of the squad that finished 18-3-4. “We had a very good team, but more importantly, a group of guys that believed in each other and worked extremely hard every minute of every game. We won a lot of games late in the game and in overtime because of the mentality and focus we had.”
For the Cardinals, ranked second in the preseason coaches’ poll, chances of repeating took a hit with the graduation of Zach Myers (17 goals, National Player of the Year, First team All-American), Jason Wise (All-American goalkeeper; ranked high in the nation in goals against average, shutouts, and save percentage) and Bobby Short (14 assists – second most in the nation).
“In order to try and repeat our success, we need to be sharp, mentally and physically and continue to play for each other,” Wassermann said. “We were one of the strongest defensive teams in the country last year; if we keep that attitude, we can do some serious damage because we also have a very potent attack, but it all comes from working together.”
Top returning players for the Cardinals are Taylor Clarke (all-conference defense, captain), Michael Lamb (all-conference and all-regional defense), Locky Savage (12 goals last year, all-conference and all-regional midfield), Zach Vasold (all-conference midfield), Ben Thomas (defense), Zach Cooney (defense), Morley Burns (defense), and Zach Minor (defense), along with Craig Neal, Tyler Channell, and Zach Walega. Wassermann also added that goalkeepers Tyler Yachcik, Josh Howell, and Aaron Gerig will battle for the starting job to replace Wise.
“It is important to stay healthy; last year we were fortunate to have almost everyone healthy for the whole year,” Wassermann said. “We have a great training staff and the players need to be smart about how they take care of their bodies throughout the season.”
Timberwolves Tough
Northwood University finished second in the GLIAC North behind the Cardinals with an 8-5 record. It brings back leading scorer Sam Nair for his sophomore season and and top goalkeeper Johannes Sterobo.
Pay attention to…
Ohio Dominican University tied for a share of the GLIAC South soccer title with Notre Dame College. Both schools finished with 9-4 records.
Ohio Dominican is led by head coach Willy Merrick. Top seniors returning to the team are Duncan Campbell (midfield) and Billy McGlone (forward), with Nigel Patterson and Trevor Gates also returning.