69传媒

The 69传媒Men's Soccer team is ready to claim its place among the Atlantic University Sport (AUS) contenders. With a proud tradition of success under head coach Lewis Page, the Panthers are looking forward to a great season, starting with their home opener against the Memorial University Sea-Hawks on Friday, August 30, at 7:15 pm.

This year, a new generation of talent is set to take centre stage as the program embraces a youth movement that promises to bring renewed excitement and hope.

鈥淲e learned how close the race can be to a playoff spot and that a few close results going your way can be the difference,鈥� said veteran centre back Max VanWiechen.

Defensively, the Panthers boast the most experienced unit on the roster. VanWiechen and fullback Riad Jaha, both entering their fourth year, will anchor the backline and provide stability. The competition for playing time in defence will be fierce, with Lachlan MacEachern, Noah Killorn, Landon Perry, and newcomer Kyle St-Jean vying for spots alongside the veterans.

鈥淲e鈥檙e a strong group right now, especially with the young players who have added quality and depth to our defence,鈥� Jaha said. 鈥淚 see us as a tough backline鈥攄ifficult to break down, difficult to create chances on, while capable of building our attack from the back.鈥�

In goal, Isaac Wolters has steadily built confidence over the years and will be the undisputed opening-day starter for the first time in his 69传媒career. Rookies Sean Rooney and Nick Hogan will serve as capable backups developing under Wolters.

In the midfield, Jeremiah Osorio is the only player returning to his familiar position in the middle, while third-year players Jacob Tweel and Will Campbell will shift from their usual forward roles to bolster the midfield. Sophomore Emile Abele and rookie Rio Crystal are also expected to contribute and add depth to the unit.

鈥淚鈥檓 really excited about our midfield. Jacob and Jeremiah will be solid in there for us,鈥� Page said. 鈥淲e're planning to move Will Campbell there too鈥攈e has a big engine and seems to cover every blade of grass out there."

Offensively, the attacking third will be led by a youthful contingent, with rookies Jahmal Boursiquot and Thomas Gagn茅 likely to see substantial action up front. Boursiquot, in particular, is an exciting prospect known for his natural ability to find the back of the net.

鈥淭his team is all about high intensity,鈥� Page said. 鈥淵ou can expect us to press hard, keep the opposition under constant pressure, and be relentless and aggressive when we're on the attack."

As the Panthers embark on the season, their blend of experienced defenders and promising young talent across the field positions them nicely to reignite their winning tradition.

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