This fall, both the men’s and women’s soccer teams have made their season special. Both teams played for the Midwest Conference Championship on “Senior Day,” – a day in which the College traditionally honors and thanks senior players – which took place on Sunday, November 1st this year.
After an overall record for men’s soccer of 12-6-0 as of November 1st, the men’s team fell to St. Norbert College 3 to 2 for the Conference Championship. Although the outcome of that game was not what the team wanted, the men’s team still continued to play for the Midwest Conference Tournament in hopes of being able to take a spot in the NCAA Division III Tournament bracket.
Pictured: Men’s Soccer Photo By : Josh Hanna
The men’s team pulled through and defeated Knox College for a 2-1 victory. The team went on to play in the first round of the NCAA Tournament against Wheaton College, but unfortunately lost, ending their season. Although the team did not want the season to end, they competed to their best ability, had an experience they will never forget, and had another memorable season.
“I had a great time playing with my awesome teammates and fellow seniors. Also, it was great seeing my family in the stands supporting me on my last home game of my soccer career,” reflected Themis Mourikes ’16, member of the men’s soccer team.
The women’s team, on the other hand, defeated St. Norbert College 5 to 4 in an exciting championship game. “It was really emotional to play with the four other seniors that I have played with for the last four years in such a big game, that no matter win or lose, it was going to be a meaningful last game no matter what,” said Holly Lesperance ’16, member of the women’s soccer team.
That said, the women’s soccer team was able to win their third Conference Title in the last four years. After an incredible season by both men’s and women’s soccer, it will be sad to see the seniors go. Senior members of the both the men and women’s soccer teams shared their favorite memories of playing for the College with the Stentor.
Jeremiah Erzen’s ’16 favorite memory is his “sophomore year when we won the conference and the tournament, and went to the NCAA Tournament. The combination of winning both was really exciting and being able to do it here in front of our fans just made it even more special.” Michelle Greeneway ’16 added, “I’d say [my favorite memory was]having the opportunity to compete in the conference tournament all four years. It is an incredible honor and the postseason atmosphere cannot be beat.”
Although the seniors are saying farewell to Farwell field, they leave a legacy in Forester Athletics that will be remembered on the field and off the field. Captains of both teams left some advice for their teammates and fellow athletes. Captain of the men’s soccer team, Evan Vogel ’16, said, “My advice is that in order to be successful on the field, you must be able to balance school and soccer. Also, never get complacent with where you are, always strive to achieve more.”
Pictured: Women’s Soccer Photo By : Matt Weidner ’17
Captain of the women’s soccer team, Sam Hillis ’16, shared: “Do not to be intimidated of upperclassman or those on the team. Just use them as a good form of competition to try to better yourself; you can use that as a learning tool.”
The men and women’s soccer teams both represent the idea of being a family. Win or lose, everyone supports each other. John Cappuccitti ’18, who transferred from Loyola University in Chicago, came into the soccer program and had no problem fitting in.
“Friendships were made that will last a lifetime. Our team keeps reminding each other that through thick and thin, we are a family no matter what. These seniors are a group to remember. They will be dearly missed due graduation,” said Cappucitti.
