GAME DAY INFORMATION   DATE: August, 24, 2023 TIME: 7:30 PM LOCATION: Athletic Training Center DeLand, Florida   GAME DAY LINK   LIVE STATS

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THE LEAD
The Stetson University Men's Soccer team will take the pitch for the first time this regular season as they open play against the College of Charleston at 7:30 PM on Thursday at the ATC. The game will be the second of a double header with the women's team, who will be hosting Charleston Southern at 5:00 PM.

INSIDE THE SERIES
These two programs have faced off six times prior to this season's matchup but it has been dead even so far as the series stands at 2-2-2. Last time they met, the game went through two overtimes without either team being able to break the tie as it ended in a 0-0 draw. Despite the rich histories of both programs, the inaugural matchup between these two esteemed institutions in soccer took place as recently as 2008, when the Cougars took the first game by the score 2-0. The Hatters last win came in 2019 when forward Franck Kouentchi provided the lone goal of the game in a 1-0 victorious effort.

SCOUTING THE HATTERS (0-0-0, 0-0 ASUN)

Emerging from a noteworthy season marked by a commendable record of 6-3-7, which notably included a 4-2-2 triumph within the fiercely competitive ASUN conference, the Hatters' journey met an unforeseen turn as they encountered a heartrending defeat against Bellarmine during the first round of the ASUN Championship – the match ending in a hard-fought 2-2 draw and a subsequent 0-3 penalty shootout. Undeterred by the past, the indomitable spirit of the Hatters resurfaces with renewed vigor. Garnering recognition for their prowess, the team  was ranked fourth in the 2023 Preseason Coaches' Poll.

Within the ranks of the Stetson Men's Soccer team shines a ternion of exceptional players, each rightfully securing their positions on the Preseason All-ASUN Team. Seasoned defender Kelvin Zinck, dynamic junior midfielder Charles Ahl, and sophomore midfielder Andres Mata all claim their spots. Of particular note, Mata's inclusion as an at-large selection highlights his exceptional abilities and contributions to the team.

Furthermore, the accolades keep pouring in as Nicolo Radaelli and Alvaro Gabancho proudly ascend the podium of recognition, having claimed the titles of Goalkeeper of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year in the Preseason Fan Vote. With these accomplished athletes leading the charge, the upcoming season holds promise as the Hatters strive to etch their names in the record book for the first time since 2009.

SCOUTING THE COUGARS (0-0-0, 0-0 CAA)

Last season, the College of Charleston Cougars secured a 7th-place finish in the 2022 CAA standings with a 5-7-5 season record. Their performance was characterized by a strong home presence with a remarkable 5-0-1 record on their home turf. However, they encountered difficulties on the road, managing a 0-7-1 record in away matches. As the Cougars enter the new season, they find themselves ranked 8th in the 2023 Preseason Coaches Poll. 

Reflecting on the previous season, the Cougars exhibited offensive potential by collectively netting 18 goals while yielding 25 goals on the defensive end.

At the core of their defensive strategy stands sophomore goalkeeper Olly Marshall, a steadfast presence in the net. Over the previous season, Marshall guarded the goal in 11 games, amassing 39 saves while conceding 13 goals for a save percentage of .750.

Noteworthy individuals include Chris Elliott, who earned a spot on the Preseason All-CAA team. After being named CAA Rookie of the Year in 2022 he claimed a spot on the Preseason All-CAA team. Elliott's contributions included eight pivotal goals, including a game-winning shot, and a team-leading 17 points, solidifying his place as a significant offensive contributor.

Another standout, Leonardo D'Ambrosio, secured honorable mention honors after being named to the All-CAA Second Team in the fall. The now sophomore recorded 13 points last fall with a team-high five assists. Additionally, D'Ambrosio ranked third for the College of Charleston in shots (24) with 12 on target.

The Cougars are led by Head Coach Keith Wiggans, who enters his fourth season at the helm of his alma mater after being promoted from associate head coach in December 2019. He enters the season with an overall record of 11-19-11 and a 4-13-4 record within the CAA. 

NEXT UP
The Hatters will hit the road for the first time during the 2023 season as they travel to the nearby University of Central Florida. Kickoff against the Knights is set to begin at 8:00 PM on Sun, Aug 27 at the UCF Soccer and Track Complex.