UDC Men’s Soccer adds 13 new players for the 2019 season.
Washington, DC- The University of the District of Columbia's men soccer team added 13 new players to their roster for the upcoming 2019 season.
"The team sees many changes this year with ten players graduating from the previous year – a team record, and with 13 new incoming players - 6 International players and 7 local players from the DC / Metro area," says head coach Matthew Thompson.
Last year's team finished their season with an overall record of 6-10-1 and a conference record of 4-5. Four out of the ten seniors that graduated earned All-ECC Honors, including the programs first ever All-American, Gabriel Torres.
"During preseason, we will be looking to make sure the team have bonded well. An international locker room ensures diversity within the squad increasing cultural awareness within the group."
The Firebirds look to compete in 18 games (11 of which will be held at the UDC Sports complex field) this season with the hopes of making it to the ECC playoffs. Their first conference game will kick of on September 28 vs Bridgeport, who they defeated last year 4-2.
"The team's goal is to always make the top 4 in the ECC and Playoffs. With LIU Post leaving the ECC, each team will think they now have a better chance of winning the Championship! We will concentrate on our team and the process putting ourselves in the best position to aspire and accomplish. The hard work already started in January and the successful integration of new players gives us a solid foundation to succeed."
"We expect each player to apply and represent the University to the best of their ability as we look to emulate the good work done two years ago. Freshman have come in and have assimilated very quickly immediately challenging the starting with competition for places from the first whistle."
The team has also started early with their community service, right here on campus, helping Casey Trees to plant and water the trees on campus. "Our most recent UDC Men's Soccer community service event was undertaken outside Building 47 as we looked to help Casey Trees with planting, watering nurturing the trees on campus. Players worked in small groups, under the direction of two team leaders helping lay the foundations on campus. Foundations that will serve us well this Fall season."
The Firebirds kick off their season on September 5th against Goldey-Beacom College, at a neutral site.