ROYAL OAK, Mich. - The 2013 edition of the Trine University men's soccer team was picked to finish seventh in the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) preseason coaches' poll announced today. Defending champion Calvin was chosen the preseason favorite.
Calvin and Hope both received three first-place votes. Kalamazoo, which was picked to finish third, received two first-place votes in the poll.
In their first seasons under head coach Trevor Ferrell the Thunder posted an 8-10-1 record and placed fifth in the conference to finishing just a spot out of the MIAA Tournament. This year's squad returns their entire defensive backfield and a core of young players that have the Thunder poised for another run at the postseason.
The Thunder defense will be led by junior goalkeeper Chris Stewart and senior defenseman Samuel Seibolt. Stewart logged every minute in goal last season for the Thunder while recording seven shutouts and ranking 30th in Division III in total saves. The Thunder defense also returns sophomore Jacob Nantz who started all 19 games and junior David Gannon who also played in all 19 contests.
Offensively, the Thunder must replace their two leading goal scorers who graduated. Trine does return junior Karston Shephard who led the team with five assists last season along with senior David Duquette who started all 19 games. Other offensive players returning who saw significant time include junior Mac Green and sophomores Kenny Rappuhn and Nick Lang.
Trine opens their season on the road when they travel to Franklin College for the two-day Daniel Schuetz Community Classic tournament. The Thunder will open the year facing Rose Hulman on August 30. The Thunder open their home schedule on September 13 when they host the annual Ketner Classic. Trine will host Adrian, Manchester and Elmhurst (IL). Trine will face Elmhurst in the first game at 2:00 p.m. Trine then opens their conference schedule the following week when they host Alma on Sept. 17 at 4:00 p.m.
Poll Results (first-place votes in parenthesis): 1. Calvin (3) 13 pts. 2. Hope (3) 14. 3. Kalamazoo (2) 21. 4. Olivet 22. 5. Adrian 32. 6. Alma 36. 7. Trine 39. 8. Albion 47.