Men's Soccer Team Ends Trying Season

Washington, DC- The Firebird Men’s Soccer Team completed a trying season at the end of October 2005, with a record of 7-9-0. Although the team failed to garner a spot in the NCAA championships, their passion on the field does plant a seed for their imminent return to the Playoffs in the future.

There were several highlights for the Men’s Soccer Team during the 2005 season. The team saw the return of  Coach Osman Orlando. Coach Orlando is a former professional and Olympic soccer player, and he is also a past recipient of the Adidas Division 11 – Great Lakes Regional Coach of the Year. Also, the addition of new talent in the form of players, aided the team through their impressive season.

Jonathan Orlando led the Firebirds in their striking showing of soccer skills. He was ranked 8th among players in NCAA Division 11 schools with 14 total goals. Other standout players were Myron Douglas, Alvin Quarza, Diego LaHoya, and G. Kyemtore Olivier. And, sharing in the spotlight were Nicola Santagata, Kapalubwe Kadma, Pidenam Bodjona, and Edwin Bonilla. The team’s tenacity and fighting spirit mirrors that of a Firebird. Yankulou Boyan, Butler Omuchey, and Laouali Soumaila completed their college-playing careers this season; their discipline and leadership to the team will be missed.

Overall, both Coach Orlando and his team had an uplifting season and overcame many obstacles. While the team is happy for a wonderful season, they cannot gloat at the poor conditions of the soccer field they are afforded with. Players agree that an improved soccer field and increased fan support will strengthen the team’s performance.