TAKING THE NEXT STEP: Men’s soccer reloads for 2019 with plethora of talent

MITCHELL, S.D. - Third-year head coach Jose Lopez reloaded his team for the 2019 season as the Dakota Wesleyan University men's soccer team sets its' sights on taking the next step towards the Great Plains Athletic Conference Postseason Tournament this season.

 Scoring came at a premium for the Tigers as they only scored 13 goals throughout the entire 2018 season. The highest scoring game came against Presentation College as DWU won 4-1. However, the Tigers can turn the tide this season as they return 19 players from a year ago and bring in 15 new players.

 "Finding the back of the net is always difficult in soccer," Lopez commented. "But we have some new attacking players in the roster, and in combination with a more dynamic system and formation, we are confident that future score lines will favor the Tigers."

 The Tigers return their leading scorer in Julian Mole, as well as four other players that found the back of the net last year. Mole recorded a goal against Presentation, Dordt University and Concordia University, while Gage Pemberton, Oscar Molina, Sebastian Machado and Rene Montiel each tallied a goal.

 If the early season exhibitions are a tale to tell how the season will go, then senior forward Jason Jattan will add support to the scoring. He recorded both goals for DWU in an exhibition against Southeastern Community College as he gave the Tigers the lead in the first half and tied the game in the closing minutes. 

 Although Andrew Browning and Omar Menchaca did not see playing time last season, Lopez says he thinks they can be difference makers this season in their respective positions. Mathew Campbell will be another returner who can provide depth for the Tigers. He played in four games and started two games last year, while notching 23 saves and two wins at goalkeeper.

 "Jason Jattan, Andrew Browning and Omar Menchaca will be looking to prove themselves this season after having to redshirt last fall," Lopez said. "They are top players with a high IQ for the game. Mathew Campbell will be another player to keep an eye on as he is only a sophomore. As a keeper, he will be looking to exploit his strengths this season, those being: soft hands, quick reflexes and a long throw."

 Two new faces that Lopez will turn to for immediate leadership will be Isaias Pio and Kaio Dantas. Pio transfers to DWU from Hartnell Community College and will play a crucial role in the midfield this season. Dantas is another transfer as he comes to DWU from Cloud County Community College. Lopez will rely on him to be a steady force at the center back position.

 "Isaias Pio will play as our holding mid this season," Lopez mentioned of his newcomer. "His composure, vision and execution will be the key to our success in our new dynamic/free flowing system. Kaio Dantas will be an absolute rock in our back four. Playing as a center back, he is our most consistent player, and has one of the best and most mature attitudes on the team."

 Despite a rough season in 2018, Lopez is optimistic that this year's roster can turn the tide for DWU men's soccer and make the GPAC tournament for the first time since 2015.

 "We do have some expectations and goals for this season," Lopez stated for the upcoming season. "We expect our players to uphold what it means to be a student-athlete at DWU. They need to properly represent the crest that is on their shirts. They are a part of something bigger than themselves here playing for DWU soccer. We are keen to make the conference tournament as well as having an overall winning record."

 The 2019 season begins tomorrow against Waldorf University at 6:30 p.m. The conference opener is against Dordt University at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 18. DWU will host the annual Cancer Awareness Game against Briar Cliff University at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 23 and Senior Night will be played against Concordia University at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 2.