Friday, August 23, 2019 -- Back-to-back seasons with double-digit victories is how the Benedictine University Men's Soccer Team announced its presence to the collegiate world.
Under head coach Tim Barmettler, the Redhawks have quikcly become a formidable foe in the CALPAC. Last year the team went 9-2 against conference opponents and the team is hoping that success happens again this year as the team is eyeing a conference title run.
The Arizona Soccer Association (ASA) had a chance to talk to Barmettler about the upcoming season.
ASA: On the expectations for the season...
BARMETTLER: "This is our fourth full season for Benedictine Men's Soccer. The expectations are high, and the talent pool is deep this year. We will focus on our tournament schedule and use our non-conference games to prepare us to battle through a challenging CALPAC conference. We are hoping to get sound leadership from our upper class men and for our younger guys to step up to the tests ahead."
ASA: On the growth of the program...
BARMETTLER: "We have grown as a program over the past four years. Last year we had a successful year, but with our roster this year, we are hoping to go deeper into the conference tournament. We have enough players for a top team and a reserve team which makes training very competitive."
ASA: On this year's recruiting class...
BARMETTLER: "We have an extraordinary recruiting class this year. We have a great class of freshman who will help down the road, and a few will help this season, and a good group of Jr. college players who are blending in well. Ulysses Torres is a freshman to watch this year. He has the tools and ability to make an impact right away. Adam McMahon and Mitch McLeod are two transfers who will help solidify the defense. It should be an exciting season ahead for the Benedictine Redhawks. We are hopeful that we will be playing for a conference championship."