Cabrini’s men’s soccer team looks to improve upon last year’s performance with freshmen additions and experienced returning upperclassmen. Led by Coach Doug Meder, the Cavaliers were back at school in mid August for training camp. “During camp we are gearing up with three daily workouts,” Meder said. The three practices consisted of a morning cardio workout with sprints and endurance training. Then, the team rested up and went back onto the field to do practice drills. After a short dinner break the team was back for a scrimmage to end the day.
“I expect an immediate impact from the freshman this year,” Meder said. This year’s team is made up of 14 freshmen. “This season we have a strong freshman recruiting class,” Meder said. “A lot of the freshmen recruits will contribute to the team and build towards the future,” Ian McDonald, junior soccer player, said.
McDonald said, “Last year was the first season in years that we haven’t made it to the playoffs. We want to certainly make improvements from last year.”
Last season the men’s team started off the season losing its first five matches. “Preseason was a lot more intense this year so I’m hoping we will see improvements,” said McDonald.
Although this year the team is comprised of a lot freshmen it also has quite a few returning players with college level experience. The team also returns four seniors. “Having senior leadership is definitely an advantage,” Meder said.
Incoming freshmen, E.J. Gilchrist and Barry Magagna, are from Archbishop Ryan High School and have been playing together for years. Gilchrist said, “We both hope to start and help the team as much as possible.”
Cabrini’s men’s soccer team will have many new faces this year and all with the aim to get back to the Pennsylvania Athletic Conference playoffs. Meder said, “My goals for this season are to once again make the playoffs and to win as many games along the way as possible.”
