Aug. 27, 2015
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SPRINGFIELD - The Missouri State men's soccer team will kick off its 2015 season at the University of South Florida tomorrow (Friday, Aug. 28) at Corbett Stadium at 7 p.m.
The Bears are led by seasoned head coach Jon Leamy, who enters his 24th season with a record of 237-167-52 (.586), all at MSU. Leamy is looking to capture his fourth Missouri Valley Conference title in five seasons in 2015.
"We are just excited to see it all come together," said Leamy. "Every day is a new day and the guys have been accepting the challenges that have come their way. This is the most special time of the year and I think that the guys would agree."
The Bears bring 12 letter-winners, 15 total returnees, and 13 newcomers to this year's squad. The team consists of nine freshmen, seven sophomores, eight juniors, and four seniors. Although MSU is young, Leamy is ready to see what they can do.
"The guys are finding out more about themselves in practice," said Leamy. "Yes we have a newer team but it is fun seeing the kids come together and they are really working well together. We are ready to see it all unfold."
In their final preseason game last Friday, the Bears started four freshmen in a 2-1 loss at Tulsa. The game was a good testament to how Leamy expects the younger guys to be able to contribute this season. Freshman Harry Lewis scored a goal for the Bears in the game, while classmates Nick Burtenshaw, Conor Ingram, and Jake Buckle also earned the starting call.
"We want to be a great group together," Leamy explained. "I tell the guys that if they do the little things right, we can be successful as a group. Our guys want to be successful together and understand the importance of unity."
The defending MVC regular season champions will return home for the second game of the season on Tuesday, Sept. 1 to play Oral Roberts at 7 p.m. The theme for the game is a whiteout/beach theme.
The MSU swimming and diving team will be hosting a cookout and meet-and-greet at the Sept. 1 game, beginning at 5:30 p.m. to celebrate their success in 2014 and preview their 2015 season. Hot dogs and chips will be provided with the option to purchase beverages separately. No outside food or beverages are permitted in the stadium.
Fans are encouraged to wear white MSU attire or their favorite Hawaiian/beach shirt. Admission is free for MSU students with a valid I.D. and children ages 12 and under. Admission for MSU faculty and staff is $2 and tickets for all other adults are $5.
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