Season Preview: Men's Soccer
by Stephen Morales
(photos by Cerwin D Haynes)
Men's Soccer was one of the first teams back on campus in April when Athletics was allowed to return to campus. And after nearly two years of waiting, ELAC Men's Soccer is ready to return to the field. As head coach Eddie Flores prepares for another season leading the way, he is excited to be with his team once again and looking forward to the upcoming season.
"To be reunited with the team after what the world has experienced after the covid pandemic is a humbling experience for players and coaches," Flores states. "We all have lost a loved one during this, and we are going to dedicate our season for those and the communities we represent"
As practices have continued - and roster cuts have taken place - Flores is pleased with how the makeup of the team is taking place.
"Besides the heat and humidity, well, we had approximately 60 guys out for the team and have made our final cuts, and [now] have our 2021 squad," Flores states. "We have five returners, we have three international players from Argentina and one French player who is scheduled to join us next week."
With August 27th fast approaching, Flores is ready to go. But also mindful of the unique challenges he and his team face with many players not having played a game in two years.
"As we prepare for our first game on the 27th, I believe that it is going to be a work in progress because," coach mentions. "We have so many freshmen on the team; they will all need to get acclimated to the pace of the college game which is very quick and technical. Hhaving said that, the guys have bonded and come together which is a basic fundamental of playing together - no egos. They are hungry to learn and play, and the 30 guys we have chosen will represent the college well on the field as well as in the classroom"
The veteran head coach also provided some insights into how the team will look this season.
"We will be strong defensively and in the backline," Flores remarks. "My concern at present is going to be that we don't really have any natural forwards - they are very hard to find. But the players we have, through development and coaching, will be able to step in those shoes and surprise our opponents. "
Key Men's Soccer Schedule Highlights:
-
First Game: Home vs Santa Ana, Friday August 27th at 6pm
-
Conference Opener: Home vs Cerritos, Tuesday October 5th at 2pm
-
First-ever game at LA City College, on Tuesday October 26th at 6pm. This season is the inaugural campaign of LACC's men's soccer team.
-
SCC Tournament dates TBD.
- Click HERE for this season's schedule.
- Home games played in Weingart Stadium.
- Spectators are currently welcome to watch the game in person. Admission is free.