In 2002, the men’s soccer team went 11-6-2 (5-3-1 in conference, tying a school record). Returning seven starters from that team might boost the team into another tier. Even with all those aspects working for them, the team still seeks respect.
After laughing about possible pre-season rankings, Stephen Chaconas said, “in the conference we get no recognition.
“We will probably be ranked the highest we ever have in this year’s preseason poll, my guess is three. But it’s alright; by the end of the year, when we have locked up the championship, we will just look back and laugh at them. Bad part is, all the coaches in the league knew [our championship] was coming, they just aren’t ready.”
Factors that could lead to a conference championship are the returns of All-South selections Tim Imafidon and T.J. Muse. Muse started all 19 games last year and was the backbone of the team defense. Imafidon led last year’s team in goals (10) and points (24), yet has set no statistical goals for himself this season.
“My only personal goal is to help lead the team to an ODAC championship,” Imafidon said. “If I did not receive any other awards and our team won the ODAC’s, that would bring me more satisfaction than anything.”
Chaconas believes senior Ampofo Darko could be a crucial ingredient in pushing the team to the top of the conference.
“[Po] has only gotten better every single year,” said Chaconas, “and last [season] did tremendous. He is probably the fastest player in the ODAC and has become very adept at getting in behind defenses.”
“I like Po because his mother took me out to dinner three times while I was in Ghana,” senior Allison Duncan said, adding, “and he’s a good player. Don’t forget that.”
Not only do the players come from selfless families, but also they are selfless themselves.
Coach Liam Behrens was unable to respond in time to make the article, but in his stead, Imafidon “hopes…for [Behrens] to receive ODAC Coach of The Year [honors] because he has brought the soccer program a long way and deserves it.”
With their season beginning on Aug. 30 at Maryville University (TN.), the team will launch its quest to gain respect and recognition.
Their coach has already gained the respect of his team.
The team seems primed to work for the same respect from the rest of the conference.