NOVEMBER 1, 2017

Thank You

Of all the Men's Soccer Daily Update entrees we write, this one is the toughest.

With tonight's 2-0 loss to Albany the 2017 men's soccer season has come to an end. So too has Year 10 of the Men's Soccer Daily Update.

We'd like to thank several people for making this another successful year of our covering the program:

• Head coach Paul Marco and his assistants Tommy Moon, Rob Emmett and Bret Celeste.
• Graduating seniors Ben Ovetsky, Charlie Novoth and Mike Kubik, who have been a pleasure to work with during their career.
• From our SID office, Leigh Martino and Sydney Harbaugh did a fantastic job with the graphics you saw on Twitter and Instagram.
• Also from the SID office, our intern Hayoung was terrific with the video highlights.

It's people like these who have made my job so enjoyable every fall.

Later this week, the America East will announce its all-conference and all-academic teams. Stay tuned to the Binghamton website for more details.
Before signing off for 2017, a personal note. Back in August, I dedicated my efforts this year to my late high school friend Mike Murray, who died from ALS in July. The men's soccer team did their part in raising awareness for the fight against ALS back in 2014, which I documented. Little did I know one of my closest friends from high school, whom I lost contact with, was waging a much more personal battle against ALS.

I hope I have covered this season with same spirit Mike showed in his final years with ALS. The Binghamton men's soccer program deserves such coverage.

Sincerely,
David O'Brian


 

OCTOBER 31, 2017

Senioritis

Tomorrow is the Bearcats' annual Senior Day match.

There have been 15 previous matches since head coach Paul Marco arrived at Binghamton in 2002. Having been here for all of them, we have our Top 5 list of the most significant Senior Day matches. For this list, we will go in order of importance.

2011

The Bearcats missed out on the America East Tournament but sent the seniors out in style with a 5-1 win over regular-season champion Boston University.

That year's senior included Ryan Walter, Jerome Robinson, Adam Santiago and Santigui Tounkara.

2002

The first Senior Day under head coach Paul Marco featured a 3-1 win over Stony Brook. Graham Munro sealed the win with a pair of penalty kicks.

Honored that day were seniors Stephen Nueman, Keith Augeri, George Loebrich and Stephen Rybak.

Augeri and Rybak, in particular, has stayed connected with us.

2010

Seven years ago today, Tommy Klim's goal in double overtime lifted the Bearcats to a 1-0 win over New Hampshire. The victory clinched a first-round home game.

That year's seniors included Kyle Mascuck, Yusuf Yusuf, Scott Zobre and Josh Sailar.

2006

It was the best scoreless tie in the program's Division I era.

A 0-0 draw against Vermont clinched the Bearcats' first-ever America East regular-season title.

That year's seniors included Ibrahim Yusuf, Bryan Arnault, Ryan Bertoni, Peter Sgueglia, Joey Neilson and Kyle Antos.

2005

Binghamton's 1-0 overtime win over Boston University clinched a first-round home game.

The senior class, which was the first to play all four years under Coach Marco, was perhaps the most influential. It included Graham Munro, Danilo, Darius Ravangard, Phil Grommet, Joe Howe, Ryan Pierce and Luc Vallone.

You could make a case that Antos belonged in this group as well but he took a medical redshirt in 2003 and stayed an extra year. No complaints from him, however. He got to hoist the America East championship trophy as the team captain in 2006.

Still, when this class arrived, the Bearcats were coming off a two-win season. When they left, the program had been nationally ranked all three years.

They were the group that truly endeared the media and the Binghamton community to the men's soccer program. They were lightly recruited but got every bit out of their potential.

Can anyone forget Munro (affectionately known as Dowser) imploring his teammates to do better during a match? Or Danilo yelling out his name for a ball in the air?

The best story we heard about that group came from the game-day management department here at Binghamton. It turns out that the PA announcer, Sean Lishansky, had to make the warm up CD for the team in 2005. The reason why? The team did not care about making a warm up tape. They just cared about winning. It's little wonder why they did so well.

My best story, however, came right after the Senior Day ceremony prior to the match against Boston University. I had just snapped the team photo and was expecting the players to go back to the huddle.

Danilo, however, came over to me instead.

"Thank you for everything you have done for us." he said.

No Danilo, thank YOU.

Posted October 31, 2017
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




OCTOBER 30, 2017

To Be Continued.... 

Our post today was going to detail the playoff scenarios for Wednesday night. But the conference has yet to officially tell us what they are.

We do know that the Bearcats will clinch a post-season berth with a win. They control their own destiny.

But we'll hold off on anything official before we post it.

Stay tuned.

Posted October 30, 2017 at 4:55 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




OCTOBER 27, 2017

Binghamton at Vermont

Since Binghamton and Vermont started their series back in 2002, some of the Bearcats' more memorable games have taken place at Vermont.
In chronological order, here are our top five games between the two teams in Burlington.

2003
Binghamton 0, Vermont 0

Binghamton's defense which led the nation with just nine goals allowed, turned in the shutout.

2005
Binghamton 3, Vermont 2

Luc Vallone has a goal and an assist in the final 20 minutes of regulation as the Bearcats rally for a 3-2 victory.

2009
Binghamton 2, Vermont 1

Matt Kristek scores in the 90th minute as Binghamton defeats the Catamounts 2-1.

2015
Binghamton 2, Vermont 1

Logan Roberts and Pascal Trappe net first-half goals as the Bearcats won their conference opener for the third time in four seasons.

2015
Vermont 1, Binghamton 0
America East Finals

While we don't like focusing on defeats, the fact that this was a championship game makes it worthy of being included.

Good Luck

The Binghamton women's soccer team hosts  Vermont in the America East semfinals on Sunday at 1 p.m.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History: October 27, 2007

Cameron Keith had a goal and an assist as the Bearcats recorded a 3-0 shutout against visiting Albany.

Binghamton's other two goals were scored by Barry Neville and Scott Zobre

Posted October 27, 2017 at 9 a.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




OCTOBER 26, 2017

Playoff Push

With two conference games left in the regular season, it's time to check the America East playoff picture. The top six teams will qualify for the conference tournament, which starts Nov 4.
Here are the current conference standings:

Team                                    W-L        Pct.        Pts.
New Hampshire                  4-1          0.800     12          
Vermont                               4-1          0.800     12          
Albany                                 3-2          0.600     9             
UMass Lowell                     3-2          0.600     9             
UMBC                                  2-2-1       0.500     7             
Binghamton                        1-2-2       0.400     5             
Stony Brook                        0-3-2      0.200      2             
Hartford                                0-4-1      0.100     1

And here are Saturday's games:

New Hampshire at UMass Lowell – 7 p.m.
UMBC at Hartford – 7 p.m.
Binghamton at Vermont – 1 p.m.
Albany at Stony Brook – 7 p.m.

We won't look too far past Saturday but here is what could transpire:

With a win, Binghamton would have eight points and officially clinch a spot in the America East Tournament if Stony Brook also lost to – or tied -- Albany.

The Bearcats would move into fifth place if UMBC lost to Hartford. They would be tied with UMBC should the Retrievers tie the Hawks.

A tie by Binghamton would give the Bearcats six points but the Bearcats would clinch a playoff spot with a loss by Stony Brook to Albany.

Looking beyond Saturday might take up too much of our time right now.

But we will revisit this on Monday.

Social Media Update

Click here to view a crescent moon over the Bearcats Sports Complex last night, courtesy of our men's soccer Instagram page.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History: October 26, 2013

Binghamton played to a scoreless tie against seventh-ranked UMBC at the Bearcats Sports Complex.

UMBC eventually advanced to the College Cup semifinals that year.

Posted October 26, 2017
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




OCTOBER 25, 2017

Catching Up

After a (rare) off day for us yesterday, we're back to recap the Hosftra match and go over some other notes.

Welcome Back

One plus that came out of the UMass Lowell match on Saturday, sophomore back Stephen McKenna, who missed most of the season with an injury, was inserted at halftime and played the final 45 minutes. The Bearcats did not surrender a goal during that stretch.

First-Year Class Notes

Haris Brkovic, who transferred from nearby Broome Community College, continues to make the most of his first season with the Bearcats. His goal against the Pride puts into second place on the team with five goals and 11 total points.

Including Brkovic, four of the top five goal scorers for Binghamton this season are first-year players. Noah Luescher, Jack Muller and Kurt Wesch each have three goals.

Wish Granted

Two weeks ago during his interview with Roger Neel on the WNBF Morning Show, head coach Paul Marco said that women's soccer forward Kayla Saager would get his vote for the America East Striker of the Year – if he had a vote. Today, Saager was indeed the first Binghamton women's soccer player ever to earn the accolade.

Follow Up

We spoke to longtime Binghamton coach Tim Schum tonight at the half about the 1987 team that was featured last week. Lots of good memories but the NCAA Tournament game against RIT still was tough to swallow.

I can relate as a longtime Washington Capitals hockey fan. The last two years, the Caps have had the best record in the regular season – but lost to the eventual Stanley Cup champion Pittsburgh Penguins in the playoffs.

Coach Schum was right, the 1987 squad, while off the program's greatest – was also the most underappreciated.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer: October 25, 2008

A pair of goals by Cameron Keith lifts the Bearcats to a 2-0 win over New Hampshire. The game was delayed over 30 minutes while the turf at the Bearcats Sports Complex was fixed after heavy rains during the day.

Coming Up Next....

We'll sort out the America East Tournament playoff picture tomorrow.

Posted October 25, 2017 at 9:50 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




OCTOBER 23, 2017

Weekend Wrap Up

A tough loss to UMass Lowell, but let's use this space to once again congratulate the Bearcat women's team.

In what will go down as one of the most historic and dramatic contests in Binghamton history – in ANY sport, the Bearcats beat Hartford 3-2 in overtime to clinch a share of the America East regular-season title yesterday. Since it was also the team's Senior Day, the win was all the more special.

Binghamton was down a player from the 78th minute on and had to save a Hartford penalty kick just to force overtime.

Click here for the highlight package. Our sports information intern Hayoung, who has done outstanding work all fall, really rose to the challenge for this epic game.

Give Credit Where Credit Is Due

UMass Lowell outplayed the men's soccer team and scored a goal worthy of a Top 10 Play. Guilherme Rodrigues' shot from outside the box has to be the best opposing goal we've seen this season at the Bearcats Sports Complex.

On the Menu

It was a little too cold for us to stop by the postgame tailgate, but the Binghamton student-run Leadership Institute (Explore, Engage and B You) was out before kickoff serving up pizza to everyone who stopped by.

This Day in Binghamton Bearcats History

Not sure how this happened, but there has yet to be a Division I era soccer match on October 23.

That's all from here on a quiet Monday.

Posted October 23, 2017 at 4:20 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




OCTOBER 20, 2017

First Things First

We'll get to the Bearcats' match against UMass Lowell momentarily but there is another story that deserves top billing this morning.

Congratulations to the Binghamton women's soccer on not only clinching a berth in the America East Tournament but also its first home playoff game since 2009.

Last night, the women's squad won 1-0 in double overtime at Maine to move into a tie for second place in the conference with Hartford. On Sunday, the Hawks come to the Bearcats Sports Complex for Binghamton's Senior Day game. At stake is a top-two seed, a first round bye as well as a semifinal game at home.

To fully appreciate what Binghamton has accomplished, it must be noted that the women were picked to finish seventh in the America East in the conference preseason poll. In each of the past two seasons, the Bearcats have placed last in the nine-team league.

Much of the credit goes to second-year head coach Neel Bhattacharjee, who has steered the program to its first 10-win season since 2005.

Last week, men's head coach Paul Marco said that junior forward Kayla Saager had his vote for the America East Striker of the Year. We think it's safe to predict who his vote his for the Coach of the Year.

Click here for the recap of last night's win over Maine and click here for the current America East standings.

America East Men's Soccer

The Bearcat men's team sits in sixth place in the America East with a 1-1-2 record (five points). Binghamton is one point out fourth place (UMass Lowell and Vermont are tied with six points) and two points out of third place (UMBC with seven points).

Click here for the current conference standings.

The conference as a whole has a seventh-best RPI among all NCAA Division I conferences. Out of the 205 Division I programs, Binghamton is No. 88 and UMass Lowell is No. 68.

Before the start of the season, UMass Lowell was picked to win the America East while Binghamton was picked to finish last (eighth place).

New Hampshire is currently ranked in the three national polls (United Coaches' Poll, College Soccer News and Soccer America) while UMass Lowell, UMBC and Albany have either been ranked or receiving votes at one time during the current season.

Thoughts On UMass Lowell and the America East

Head coach Paul Marco was on the WNBF Morning Show with Roger Neel this morning and offered his thoughts about tomorrow night's match as well as the state of the conference.

"The conference is very, very good. I don't think anyone expected UMBC and Vermont to do as well as they have. Those two teams are doing very well right now. The conference is very tight but we are still in a very good spot. We have only dropped one conference game and tomorrow is a massive match for us."

"UMass Lowell is like us. They really enjoy the soccer ball and both teams are averaging around 600 passes a game. It will be a really attractive game to watch. The ball shouldn't be in the air that much."

Social Media Update

In honor of Throwback Thursday (or #TBT), we got a photo from 2008 alum Darren McAllister of the Bearcats' 3-0 win at Albany in the 2008 America East opener.

Click here to check out the photo on the men's soccer Instagram site.

Follow Up

Once again, we enjoyed talking with former Binghamton head coach Tim Schum about the 30-year anniversary of the 1987 team that won the SUNYAC title and advance to the NCAA Division III Tournament.

The first person who gave us some feedback about the piece was current redshirt freshman Andres Martynek. If the last name sounds familiar, it's because his father Raul was an All-American and Binghamton Hall of Famer who starred on that 1987 squad.

Raul remains a big supporter of Binghamton athletics and has taken part in many university events over the years.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer: October 20, 2004

The men's soccer team wins 3-1 over UMBC at the old West Gym Field to improve to 3-1-2 in the America East Conference.

Posted October 20, 2017 at 9:15 a.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




OCTOBER 19, 2017

Three Decades Later

From time to time, we like to catch up with those players and coaches from the pre-Division I era of the Binghamton men's soccer program. With six conference titles in the SUNYAC and nine NCAA Division III appearances, there is much about the 20th century that deserves to be passed on to the current and future generations.

Exactly 30 years ago saw one of the most important Binghamton teams. The 1987 Colonial squad marked the first of three consecutive SUNYAC champions. It was arguably start of one of the most dynastic periods under longtime head coach Tim Schum, an NSCAA Hall of Fame member.

We caught up with Coach Schum earlier this week to find out more about the 1987 squad. His recollections are shared below.

Led by senior co-captains [and later BU Hall of Fame members] Raul Martynek and Andy Szalaji the team recorded program-best 14-2-2 record and were named New York's best Division III team at season's end. Along the way the group won two tournaments and, after a four year hiatus, returned to NCAA Division III Tournament.

Coach Schum recalls that the team was well-balanced. With Raul as the anchor the team had a solid defense. Adam Napell was the keeper fronted by defenders Jeff Terhune, Gary Isreail and newcomerJoe Vrablic.

The midfield was spearheaded by Kevin Martin and Skip Curth aided by transfer Waldo Gabio. Szalaji played as a link between the midfield and the forward starters Chris Clinton and Ian Grusd. 

One of the keys to the season was the team's bench strength with Mark Hollander, Rich Sexton, Doug Rabin, and John Tietjen able subs in the defender/midfield area while Dave Allen, Chuck Sciarabba, Bob Kowal, and Justin Corcoran were additional strikers.

In what would be a hallmark of its season, BU captured its opening tournament with 1-0 shutouts of Hobart and Colgate. Martynek and Szalaji were named MVP offensive and defensive players of the tournament.

An 8-1 win over LeMoyne brought the team record to 6-0 and ended a record shutout string of over 616 minutes for the BU defense. Union would administered the team's only regular season loss, 2-0 on the home field.

One of the hallmarks of the 1987 team was Szalaji's expertise on executing free kicks. He connected with Martynek on one with 16 minutes left to upend New Paltz, 3-2 and send BU to the SUNYAC playoffs.

Reserve David Allen starred at the SUNY Centers Tournament at Stony Brook as he scored three goals and had an assist in the 5-1 win over Buffalo in first game. A 2-1 win against Albany cemented Binghamton's fourth SUNY Centers Tournament crown. Martynek was named the tournament's MVP while Allen was named its best offensive player. 

"It was obvious that going into the SUNYAC Tournament that our number five national ranking had our team as serious contenders for the DIII title," recounts Schum. "Unfotunately, as things turned out, we might have won the battle [tying Fredonia 1-1 for the title following a 1-0 first round win over Oswego] but lost the war." He was referring to the fact that the Fredonia match needed four overtimes and included 150 minutes of play.
 
At the tournament, Szalaji was named T. Fred Holloway Award winner, emblematic of the best player in the Eastern Division of SUNYAC and he, Martynek, Terhune, and Gabio named to the All-SUNYAC team.

The SUNYAC playoffs attracted a large crowd with reporter Mike Caffin noting "Perhaps the spirit at the soccer game can be attributed to the cohesiveness and sense of unity on the team itself. More than any other varsity team at SUNY-B, the men's soccer team plays with a sense of purpose. Under Coach Tim Schum, this group of hard-nosed booters are the consummate example of a team."

Binghamton (14-1-2) was ranked first in New York State and No. 5 nationally and selected to play at home against No. 4 seed RIT in the opening round of the NCAA playoffs.

Unfortunately the game was played on the Wednesday following the exhausting SUNYAC tournament. There was no question that Binghamton's team effort against RIT in a 3-1 loss was attributable to the 250 minutes (almost three matches) it had played the previous weekend. After leading 1-0 at halftime, the bottom dropped out of the team the second half where it gave up three goals.

In hindsight Schum shared that If he had to do it all over again, he would have had very limited, if any, onfield workouts between that Saturday and the Wednesday match. "The boys needed time to recover physically. But, as many things in sports, events don't always play out as we'd like. It was a tremendous season for a wonderful group of players."

Martynek and Szalaji were later named to the first team of the New York State team. Gabio was named to the second team and Jeff Terhune to the third team. Later in December, the two co-captains were both named first team All-America players by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America, an honor never before achieved by other Colonial players.

There was some good news and some tragic news during the off season. In January, Coach Schum (who had won his 200th career game during the '87 season) was honored at NSCAA Convention with the National Intercollegiate Soccer Officials Association's Merit Award for his service to the game.

On March 1 sophomore soccer player Chuck Sciarabba died in his dorm room from complications arising from sinusitis.

Assistant coach Jim Vagliardo said, "It's really taken the team very hard. He was probably one of the most liked players on the team."

Andy Szalaji added, " Chuck was somebody who cared about everyone. . . Whenever you did something for him, he'd say 'I love you, man, I love you.' And I think he did."  Most of the team members attended his funeral on Long Island. Later a youth tournament on Long Island was named in his honor.

Postscript

Our thanks to Coach Schum for recounting what he appropriately referred to as one of the program's most unrewarded teams. RIT would be a thorn in the Bearcats' side for the next two seasons of the NCAA Division IIII Tournaments as well as in the opening round of the 1994 tournament.

We got to share a lot of the program's Division III accomplishments the first time the Bearcats made the NCAA Division I Tournament in 2003. Coach Schum made the trip out to St. Louis for the second round of the tournament. We recall that week as the perfect blending of past and current success.

We'll get back to the current Bearcats tomorrow, as they prepare for UMass Lowell.

Posted October 19, 2017 at 4:40 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu
 
 
 

OCTOBER 18, 2017

Bucknell Wrap Up

True story.

With 15 minutes left in the game at Bucknell last night, we texted the Pipe Dream student newspaper reporter who was covering it. He was on a tight deadline so we told him to warn his editor that the match might be heading for overtime. With four straight overtime decisions preceding last night's game, it was a pretty fair guess.

Fortunately, Kurt Wesch scored the game-winning goal in the 76th minute, lifting Binghamton to the 2-1 regulation victory. The goal literally occurred one minute after our text to the Pipe Dream.

Plenty to talk about, staring first with some thoughts from the guys on the bus on the way home from Lewisburg.

Junior back Kevin Flesch

"After two straight conference games, we had a little change up with a non-conference game. Despite resting some players and giving everyone even minutes, we approached the game in the same way as conference games."

"We struggled a little bit in the first half to create scoring chances despite have good possessions of the ball.  In the second half, Bucknell came out strong and put up a good challenge for us. We weren't affected by allowing the game-tying goal and we were able to come home with the win."

Redshirt freshman back Kurt Wesch

"It felt great to score and help the team get a good result. It was an important win going into the weekend against UMass Lowell. It was also great to get the win in 90 minutes. We grinded it out the last 15 minutes."

Freshman midfielder Noah Luescher

"It took us some time to get into the game but then we played quite decent. It was a win that was very important to gain confidence for our game on Saturday. We are really looking forward to playing UMass Lowell."

No Overtime? No Problem.

At the end of our phone interview with head coach Paul Marco last night, we asked him what it meant to get a win without having to go into overtime.

"It means we'll be getting home 30-45 minutes earlier than we usually do," he said.

Revisiting October 17

Yesterday's This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History noted that the only previous Bearcat match played on October 17 was a 0-0 tie two years ago at Hartford.

Needless to say, that date will have a positive result to look back on in the future.

That Rookie Class

???????Wesch is now the third Binghamton player to score three goals so far this season. He joins Luescher and current America East Rookie of the Week Jack Muller, who scored the overtime game winner at Hartford last week.

Class Act

Brendan Nash, the longtime head coach of Bucknell, has always been a first-rate coach and person throughout his 19 years as the head coach. Like Coach Marco, he too has gone to multiple NCAA Tournament and conference title games throughout his career.

We told Coach Marco during our call with him last night that Coach Nash has always been a class act in the past.

"He still is," Marco replied.

Social Media Update

Click here for a photo of Wesch with a game ball following the win last night, courtesy of the men's soccer Twitter page.

Reading List

Click here for the aforementioned recap of the win last night in the Pipe Dream student newspaper.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History: October 18, 2008

If October 17 didn't have any notable matches before last night, October 18 sure does.

Nine years ago, Cameron Keith scored midway through the second half, lifting the Bearcats to a 1-0 win over Vermont before a sold out Bearcats Sports Complex on Homecoming Weekend.

The game, which was preceded by the first-ever Homecoming Tailgate, was also televised regionally by Time Warner Cable Sports.

With the win, the Bearcats avenged their loss to the Catamounts in the 2007 America East title game and moved into first place in the conference.

That game will always be hard to top for this date.

Posted October 18, 2017 at 10 a.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




OCTOBER 17, 2017

A Week To Remember

Freshman midfielder Noah Luescher had quite a week on the field last week – featuring his first Homecoming match and the dramatic double-overtime win at Hartford.

Off the field, however, was arguably more special. Luescher's family came over from Switzerland for the week and made the trips to several of his matches.

While Luescher had to balance his academics and with his current soccer season, he still managed to spend quality time with his family.

"The day after the Stony Brook game, we went to New York City," he said. "We went to Soho to do some shopping, went to see the Brooklyn Bridge and in the evening, we went to The View Restaurant – which was incredible."

Closer to home, meanwhile, Luescher showed his family some of the more popular restaurants in the Binghamton area.

"We went to The Lost Dog, which was recommended by (team academic advisor) Kristie Bowers," he said. "We also went to Texas Roadhouse and Sake Tumi."

Luescher expected to see most of his family, but he did get an additional surprise during the week.

"My brother surprised me by coming in from Brazil, which was incredible," he said.

Beyond seeing the sites, Luescher and his family toured the campus and met his teammates and fellow students.

"It was important for them to see where I live and to see how my life looks being at Binghamton," he said.

With his family having left New York, Luescher is now focused on the remaining five regular-season matches as well as the post season. But his next visit with his family won't be too far away.

"I was very happy to see them and spend the time with them that I did," he said. "I love my family and can't wait to see them again at Christmas."

Social Media Update

Click here for a graphic honoring Jack Muller as the current America East Rookie of the Week, courtesy of our Binghamton athletic department Twitter site.

Reading List

Click here for the America East standings, where only two points separates third-place UMBC from sixth-place Binghamton. UMass Lowell, whom the Bearcats host on Saturday, is tied for fourth place with Albany (both have six points).

This Day In Binghamton Men's Soccer History: October 17, 2015

Would you believe there has only been one previous game played on October 17th during the 21st century? It was a 0-0 tie at Hartford two years ago.

Posted October 17, 2017 at 9:30 a.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




OCTOBER 16, 2017

New Hampshire Recap

A tough loss but a valiant effort by the Bearcats against New Hampshire on Saturday.

In the Bearcats' three games against nationally-ranked teams this season, they led Virginia Tech 1-0 with under 20 minutes to play, tied UMBC and took New Hampshire to overtime.

Déjà vu?

Last year, Kevin Flesch scored late in the second half in the Bearcats' game at nationally-ranked UMass Lowell. On Saturday, Kurt Wesch did the same against the Wildcats.

Overtime

Saturday's game against New Hampshire marked the first time in the program's Division I era that the Bearcats have played in four straight overtime matches.

In 2007, the Bearcats played in three straight overtime matches, defeated Boston University and UMBC at home before losing at Hartford.

In the past four matches, Binghamton has played a combined total of 58 extra minutes.

A Strong Incoming Class

Jack Muller is the second Binghamton player this season to be named the America East Rookie of the Week. He joins Noah Luescher, who was honored both Aug. 28 and Sept. 11.

Muller is also the third Binghamton newcomer to have scored at least three goals this season. He joins Luescher (three goals) and sophomore transfer Haris Brkovic.

Of the Bearcats' 21 goals this season, 12 have been scored by first-year players.

Click here for the release on Muller being named the America East Rookie of the Week.

Catching Up

We ran into 2006 alum Phil Grommet, who is now an Associate Attorney for Levene, Gouldin and Thompson, LLP in the Binghamton area. He is also a member of the Binghamton Bearcats Athletic Association Board of Directors and was at the Events Center on Monday morning for its quarterly meeting.

Grommet was a backup goalkeeper from 2002-05 but was given the men's soccer team's Bearcat Award his senior year as the senior who best exemplifies the qualities of the men's soccer team. He has remain actively in involved in the athletic department and two years ago, he took part in the department's annual Alumni Networking Panel on Homecoming Weekend.

Grommet and his family made it out to the current Bearcats' season-opening win over George Washington and he told us he was pretty impressed with their skill level.

The passion Grommet has for Binghamton can be equally matched by his passion for the New York Giants. He was very happy they finally broke into the win column last night.

Social Media Update

Click here a photo of Grommet and the rest of this year's Binghamton Bearcats Athletic Association Board Members, courtesy of the athletic department's twitter page.

This Day in Binghamton Bearcats History: October 16, 2009

In the first men's soccer game ever to be televised nationally, the Bearcats beat defending America East champion Boston University 2-1 on Fox Soccer Channel.

Ryan Walter, who had yet to score a goal during his prolific career at Binghamton, netted the game winner in the second half. Until that night, Walter had several shots hit the post during his two years with the Bearcats.

Posted October 16, 2017 at 4 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




OCTOBER 13, 2017

Heading to New Hampshire

As we hit the halfway point of the conference season, Binghamton is the only unbeaten team and sits one point out of first place with five points through three matches. There are four teams in front of Binghamton – all with 2-1-0 records and six points -- none of whom the Bearcats have faced yet this season.

Up first is New Hampshire on Saturday. The Bearcats stayed overnight in Hartford following Wednesday night's 1-0 double overtime victory before heading to Durham.

We caught up with head coach Paul Marco to get his thoughts heading into Saturday:

"New Hampshire plays a very similar system that we do. They really enjoy the ball and they have players from all over the world. They will probably have eight international players in their starting team."

"One of the keys to the match will be our midfield play against their midfield play. Both teams play in somewhat of a diamond formation. Obviously, a lot of the match going to come down to who is better in the box."

Can He Vote?

Coach Marco was pretty excited about the women's soccer team's big 1-0 win over Stony Brook last night. So much so, that he gave a shout out to Kayla Saager, who transferred from West Virginia and has led the America East in scoring this season.

"The women had a great result last night," he said. "Kayla is just tearing it up right now. She gets my vote for (America East) Striker of the Year if I had a vote."

The voting will take place following the conclusion of the regular season. We think Kayla will get heavy consideration.

Conference Update

So far this season, four America East men's soccer teams have either been nationally ranked or receiving votes in the three national polls (United Soccer Coaches, College Soccer News and Soccer America).

UMass Lowell was in all three polls at the start of the year. Currently New Hampshire is ranked by all three polls, UMBC is ranked by Soccer America and Albany is receiving votes in two of the polls.

Binghamton has earned at least one point against a nationally-ranked conference team two straight seasons. Last year, the Bearcats tied UMass Lowell 1-1 on Oct. 1 as Kevin Flesch scored in the closing seconds of regulation. Last week, of course, Binghamton tied UMBC 1-1 on Homecoming Weekend.

By The Numbers

Binghamton's goal against average, which had been as high at 1.76, is now down to 1.24. Taking away the pair of own goals against Cornell, the Bearcats have not allowed more than one goal in their last seven matches.

After only posting one shutout in its first nine games, Binghamton now has a pair of shutouts in its most recent three games.

Social Media Update

Not to linger on to Homecoming Weekend too much, but click here for a photo of the sunset during the match against UMBC last Saturday, courtesy of our men's soccer Instagram page.

Jonathan Cohen, our university photographer, always takes outstanding nature/sky photos. But he outdid himself this time.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History: October 13, 2010

For those of you alums from the 2010 team, you will remember this as the fernufel game.

Scott Zobre scored in the second sudden-death overtime period, lifting the Bearcats to a 2-1 home win over Hartford. The victory improved Binghamton's conference record to 2-0-1.

After the game, during the post-game interview, Zobre described the goal as coming out of a fernufel.

Evidently, the term fernufel was coined by Justin Leskow a few years earlier to describe a scramble for a ball inside the box. The term had become commonplace with the team, but the media was dumbfounded by the term. So much so, that WBNG sports anchor Brendan O'Reilly actually had the words "WHAT IS A FERNUFEL?" appear across the screen.

Posted October 13, 2017 at 10 a.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




OCTOBER 12, 2017

Hartford Recap

For the third straight match, Binghamton went into double overtime against an America East opponent. This time, however, the clock never hit 110:00 minutes.

In arguably what is the biggest goal the Bearcats have scored this season, Jack Muller was the hero in their 1-0 win at Hartford.

Lots to go over today.

Overtime

It's been a while since the Bearcats won an overtime game.

The last instance came when Pascal Trappe netted the game winner in the Bearcats 3-2 win at Stony Brook in the 2015 America East quarterfinals.

It's been even longer since the Bearcats won a conference match in overtime. Five years as a matter of fact.

The last instance came when Jake Keegan netted the game winner in Binghamton's 2-1 overtime win over New Hampshire back on Sept. 29, 2012.

The Last Time It Happened

Hartford has always been a tough place to play. It's been since 2003 that the Bearcats have won at Al Mazook Field. In that game, Stephen Bruce scored on a breakaway with a minute left in regulation. giving Binghamton a 1-0 win.

That victory, which improved the Bearcats' conference record to 2-1-1, was one of the turning points of the season, which culminated in winning the America East title.

It's too soon to speculate how big of an impact Wednesday's win will have – but the victory could springboard Binghamton to further success the remainder of the year.

Thoughts from the Road

We caught up with junior back Kevin Flesch last night who shared his thoughts on the win.

"We played extremely well and stuck to our game plan throughout the match. We created some good chances in the first half as well as the second half but we weren't fortunate enough to convert them. However, we knew a goal was coming and we finally found the back of the net after a counter-attack in the second overtime."

"Hartford put up a good match and played really well but in the end, we were the lucky ones getting the three points."

Kudos
Our thanks to the Hartford Sports Information Office for sending us the video of Muller's game-winning goal so promptly. In particular, Matthew Brady, who sent us the goal was also the play-by-play announcer for the Hawks' broadcast. He was fair and balanced and his call of Muller's goal was excellent.

It's never easy to keep professional when your team loses a heartbreaker --we've been there before -- but Brady and Hartford were outstanding last night.

Click here for the goal, for those of you who have yet to see it.

Slip and Slide?

Muller's goal was followed by the most interesting goal celebration we've seen in quite some time.

He ran towards the right corner of the field and dove onto the turf. If you have ever had a Slip and Slide growing up, Muller's celebration was pretty similar.

Not sure where it ranks on our list of best celebrations – Ben Nicholson's 2013 flip is still number one – but it does earn a spot somewhere.

Social Media Update

The Bearcats seemed pretty happy at the post-game meal last night in Hartford. We were sent a photo by the coaching staff entitled "Victory Feast."

Click here to see it, courtesy of the men's soccer Twitter page.

Good Luck

A huge game tonight for the Binghamton women's soccer team, at home against Stony Brook at 7 p.m. The Bearcats are 8-3-3 with a 2-2-0 record in the America East conference. Stony Brook is 3-1-0 in conference play.

Click here for the match preview.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History: October 12, 2016

Binghamton's last conference road win came one year ago today. Ben Ovetsky scored in the second half as the Bearcats defeated UMBC 1-0.

Fittingly enough, it was Ovetsky who had the goal against UMBC last Saturday.

Coming Up Next…

We'll have some final thoughts on the win at Hartford and look ahead to New Hampshire tomorrow.

Posted October 12, 2017 at 9 a.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




OCTOBER 11, 2017

Hartford Pre Game

Some final notes before the Bearcats kick off at Hartford tonight at 7 p.m.:

- Binghamton is in sixth place in the America East through two matches. The Bearcats are one of four teams not to have dropped a conference match.

- The Bearcats have surrendered one goal in their past 240 minutes of play. That translates to a 0.40 goals against average during that stretch.

- Binghamton has an RPI of No. 101 among the 204 NCAA Division I soccer programs. Among the teams ranked ahead of them in the RPI rankings, the Bearcats have faced Columbia (14), Virginia Tech (22), UMBC (48), George Washington (50), Stony Brook, Cornell (93), James Madison (95) and Canisius (98). Binghamton has defeated George Washington and Canisius and played to ties against Stony Brook and UMBC.

- The Bearcats and Hawks are no strangers to squaring off in big games at Hartford. The two squads met there in the 2013 America East quarterfinals and the semifinals the following year. Both games went into overtime.

Reading List

Click here for the Press & Sun Bulletin's College Update, which features Haris Brkovic's four-goal outburst two weeks ago. 

Ouch!

The big news in American soccer today is unfortunately, the U.S. failing to qualify for the 2018 World Cup. It marks the first time since 1986 that the United States will not take part in the event.

Having worked at the University of Maryland from 1995-00, I know how successful Bruce Arena was both at the University of Virginia and then with D.C. United. He won five NCAA titles with the Cavaliers and a pair of MLS Cups and three trips to the league title game with D.C. United.

In addition, Arena led the Americans to a berth in the 2002 World Cup quarterfinals.

So much is being written about Arena today but having working in the Washington D.C. during his heyday, I can't forget all that he did for U.S. soccer.

This Day in Binghamton Bearcats History: October 14, 2014

Derrick Ladeairous' goal in the 80th minute propelled the Bearcats to a 1-0 win over New Hampshire on Family Weekend. The victory improved the Bearcats' record to 2-0-0 in America East play.

Click here for the recap.

Posted October 11, 2017 at Noon
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu





OCTOBER 10, 2017

Homecoming Leftovers

Before we focus on Hartford, some final notes from Homecoming Weekend:

Debut for ESPN3

Saturday marked the first ESPN3 broadcast of a men's soccer game from the Bearcats Sports Complex. Tim Heiman, the Binghamton Rumble Ponies PR head and play-by-play announcer handled the call of the game.

Joining Heiman was former Binghamton women's standout goalkeeper Kristie Bowers. She was the goalkeeper on the Bearcats' 2004 America East Championship team.

Click here for some photos of the duo, courtesy of our men's soccer Twitter account.

Binghamton's 5-1 win over Canisius was an ESPN3 game.

ESPN3 returns to the Bearcat Sports Complex for men's soccer on Oct. 21 against UMass Lowell.

Welcome Back

Speaking of the women's 2004 championship team, it was great to see Meghan Taylor back for the athletic department's Alumni Networking Panel on Friday night. Taylor was the Most Outstanding Player in that season's America East Tournament.

Former men's soccer standout Matt Narode was scheduled to be at the Alumni Networking Panel as well, but had a conflict come up at the last minute. It's been quite the fall for Narode, who got married last month.

In Case You Missed It

Click here for a full recap of Homecoming Weekend on campus.

Special congratulations to recent men's lacrosse alums Tom Moore and Garrett Waldron, who were recognized for earning All-America honors during the 2017 season last spring.

Social Media Update

Courtesy of the men's soccer Instagram page, click here for a photo of Ben Ovetsky watching his ball go into the net in Saturday's match against UMBC. Kudos to Zach Leibman for the photo.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History: October 10, 2007

Just four days after Cameron Keith's legendary overtime goal against Boston, Justin Leskow struck in the first overtime period against UMBC. His goal, in the Bearcats' 1-0 win, was followed up by another celebration in the stands.

Social Media Update

Click here to go to our Binghamton Athletics Facebook page for a shot of Leskow after scoring that goal against UMBC.

Posted October 10, 2017 at 10 a.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




OCTOBER 9, 2017

Homecoming Wrap Up

It's wasn't a victory – but a 1-1 tie against No. 16 UMBC before the largest crowd at the Bearcats Sports Complex (1,967) isn't too shabby.

Plenty to go over from the weekend, so let's cover as much ground as possible today.

The Play

Ben Ovetsky's goal in the 70th minute against UMBC wasn't a fluke play. It was a designed play.

"We had been talking about that play in training for a few weeks," Ovetsky said afterwards. "Alejandro did the hard part. The instant he made the save, I ran down my route and he found me. He was great tonight."

Even though Ovetsky got behind the UMBC keeper, he still had a tough angel to shoot from.

"I kind of thought I missed the net," he said. "And then the ball rolled slower and slower but I am happy it went in."

"As soon as I caught the ball, I remembered to go long and look for some of our strikers. It worked out today and we are very happy about that."

Being a goalkeeper, we asked Cubillo when the last time he had an assist was.

"Never," he said. "First time for everything, right?"

Welcomed Guests

Cubillo's night was made more special by the fact that his family was in town from Spain. He and freshman teammate Noah Luescher, whose family is in from Switzerland all met up at the post game tailgate on Saturday night.

Click here for some of those photos, courtesy of the men's soccer Twitter page.

Luescher's family, in particular, has been very busy since coming to the United States last week. They have already been to New York City and will travel up to Hartford for Wednesday's match.

A New Tradition

In case you missed it, the Bearcats were given a sendoff from the Events Center during the Homecoming Tailgate.

"It was great to have the sendoff," Ovetsky said. "Having the fan base that we do gives us more motivation for the matches."

"The athletic department and campus did a great job this weekend," head coach Paul Marco said. "I can't remember the last time I saw that many people in the parking lot. I think a lot of the fans got there early."

Click here to watch the sendoff, courtesy of our Binghamton Athletics Facebook Page.

Reading List

Click here for the Pipe Dream's recap of the Homecoming match against UMBC.

On The Menu

Plenty to choose from in what is easily the best Tailgate spread put out by the men's soccer families each year.

Still, being from Maryland, the cooked shrimp with Old Bay seasoning won us over. Not surprisingly, the chef was Jack Muller's father. With the Mullers also hailing from Maryland, they brought the best seafood we've had during a tailgate in years.

For those unfamiliar, Old Bay seasoning is named after the famed Chesapeake Bay, which passes through both Baltimore and Annapolis.

Let's Go To The Video Tape...

A busy Saturday means we didn't post the highlights from the UMBC match until last night. But our intern Hayoung continues to do stellar work. Click here for the highlights, which features Ovetsky's goal. 

This Day in Binghamton Bearcats History: October 9, 2010

Speaking of Homecoming, it was seven years ago today that Ryan Walter's first-half goal propelled the Bearcats to a 1-0 victory over Vermont. The Homecoming crowd of 2,240 remains the fourth-largest crowd in facility history.

Social Media Update

Binghamton University ended Saturday with fireworks, for the first time since 2012. Click here for a shot of the fireworks as seen from the postgame tailgate -- courtesy of the men's soccer Instagram page. 

Coming Up Next...

We'll have a few leftovers from the weekend and look ahead to the Hartford match tomorrow.

Posted October 9, 2017 at 2:30 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu
 



OCTOBER 6, 2017

Final Notes on Homecoming Weekend

Happy Homecoming Weekend to all you out there!

A full slate of things to go over but first, we caught up with the team following their Friday morning training session. They gave their thoughts on the past week and looked ahead to the match against UMBC.

Junior midfielder Florian Orth

"This past week of training has gone really well. We improved a lot and worked on a few errors that we had to clean up. We are definitely prepared for the Homecoming Game."

"We were just a bit unlucky against Stony Brook and weren't able to score. Tomorrow, it will be good to have the crowd all behind us."

"The last two Homecoming games have been my favorite since I've been here. Having so many fans here gives us the feeling that we can't let them down."

Junior back Kevin Flesch

"This week has been great. We have been working a lot on possessing the ball and keeping up what've been doing good. We are looking forward to the weekend. It's going to be a big game with a big crowd."

"My first year at Homecoming was a very memorable experience because my dad was here. It was good for me personally. Last year against Buffalo, when we won 3-0 was also very good."

Soccer and The Cider Mill

That combination can only mean one thing—head coach Paul Marco went down to the WNBF morning show to preview the Homecoming match with Roger Neel.

Coach Marco and Neel are both big fans of The Cider Mill – a local place open every fall that specializes in cider, donuts and pies.

Last year, we brought in raspberry pie and cider for the Homecoming interview – and the Bearcats won 3-0. We couldn't mess with that formula, so we brought out the same spread again.

Click here for the video of the interview, courtesy of our Binghamton Athletics Facebook site.

Schedule on Homecoming Day

A full day in store for the team on Saturday. Here is the run down.

Speeches

The freshman and selected upperclassmen will give motivational speech to the team – a Homecoming tradition for years under Coach Marco.

The most memorable speech we've heard – Pascal Trappe yelling in German and Trey Jasenski yelling the translations in English.

Alumni Game

The alums who return to campus tomorrow will be able to take part in the annual alumni game. Not sure if they will be in shape for the Beep Test, but it's always entertaining to watch.

Walk Through

A new tradition started by the Binghamton Athletic Department – sending off the team from the Events Center lobby at 5 pm during tomorrow's tailgate. The Pep Band will be on hand as the team makes its way down to the Bearcats Sports Complex.

Don't Say We Didn't Warn You…

Three times since 2010, Binghamton has scored a goal in the first 20 minutes of their Homecoming match. This includes 2013, when Ben Nicholson did his famous flip after scoring less than five minutes into the match against UMass Lowell.

So the advice here – get to the game on time.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History: Oct. 6, 2007

What else did you expect?

It was 10 years ago today that Cameron Keith scored in overtime to lead Binghamton to a 2-1 win over Boston University.

It remains arguably the most famous game in the 10-year history of the Bearcats Sports Complex.

Posted October 6, 2017 at noon
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




OCTOBER 5, 2017

Top 5 List: Homecoming Games

With two days left before the Bearcats' Homecoming match against UMBC, it's time to rank the top 5 Homecoming Games at the Bearcats Sports Complex. Let's just say there are some epic games on this list.

5. 2010. Binghamton 1, Vermont 0

Ryan Walter's first-half goal was the difference in the Bearcats' 1-0 win over their longtime rivals. The victory came in the midst of a 2-0-2 conference start for Binghamton.

4.  2013. Binghamton 3, UMass Lowell 0

Logan Roberts had a goal and an assist. Marts Reid Warden did a dance in tribute to Daniel Sturridge of the Premier League. But it was Ben Nicholson's flip after his goal early in the first half that is the lasting tribute of this game.

3. 2016. Binghamton 3, Buffalo 0

A pair of first-half goals by Nikos Psarras vaulted the Bearcats to a 3-0 win over previously unbeaten Buffalo.

2. 2008. Binghamton 1, Vermont 0

Cameron Keith's goal in the 68th minute lifted the Bearcats to the victory in a rematch of the 2007 America East title game. The game featured the first sell out in Bearcats Sports Complex history, was aired live regionally by Time Warner Cable Sports and was preceded by the first-ever Homecoming Tailgate.

The victory lifted the Bearcats into first place in the America East.

1. 2007. Binghamton 2, Boston 1 (OT)
 
Expect anything different?
 
In a game we've reference countless times here at the Men's Soccer Daily Update, Cameron Keith scored in the final seconds of the first sudden-death overtime period, igniting a celebrating that culminated with the players celebrating with the BU Soccer Hooligans in the stands.
 
To fully appreciate the win, it must be noted that the Terriers scored early in the first half to go up 1-0. Before the game, heavy rains forced the ceremony formally dedicating the Bearcats Sports Complex to be moved indoor. The night appeared to be a washout in the making.
 
Keith, however, changed at that.
 
It's going to take something pretty special to unseat this as the top Homecoming Game.
 
2017 – your chance is now.

Looking Back
 
We caught up with Keith earlier in the week and asked for his memories of Homecoming Weekend.
 
"For me, during my time at Binghamton, there was nothing quite like Homecoming Weekend.  It was a special weekend for me, and an occasion where I always seemed to raise my game, as did the whole team.  The Boston 2-1 and the Vermont 1-0 were both very special games for me and I'll never forget them, and they will live long in the memories of BU men's soccer."
 
As for the atmosphere of Homecoming Weekend:
 
"The atmosphere under the lights on Homecoming was always absolutely electric and you could feel the energy of the community and the students in the bleachers as soon as we stepped onto the pitch.  It really felt like everyone coming together and really gave us a 12th man against the opposition.  The team was so pumped up for those games that there was no way we were going to get beat!  Incredible celebrations afterwards with the fans.....those are the moments you play soccer for!"
 
We can't disagree.
 
Social Media Update
 
Click here for the iconic shot of the postgame celebration following Keith's overtime game winner in 2007 against Boston.
 
Reading List
 
Click here for a feature article on Noah Luescher in today's Pipe Dream. Great job by Assistant Sports Editor Grace Palumbo.
 
Posted October 5, 2017 at 2:30 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




OCTOBER 4, 2017

Thoughts on Homecoming

We caught up with the Bearcats on a picture-perfect day morning at the Bearcats Sports Complex to get their thoughts on playing on Homecoming Weekend.

Redshirt sophomore goalkeeper Chris Shutler

"The Homecoming game is one of our favorite days of the year because the entire stadium is packed and everyone is shouting your name and cheering for the team. It's a great feeling."

"Last year was amazing. Being able to keep the shutout and get a 3-0 win on Homecoming against an undefeated team (Buffalo) was superb feeling. Having the fans behind us was great. There is no better feeling than that."

"Having a conference opponent this year absolutely makes it bigger. It's a must-win game for us. If we get the win with our fans there, it would make it even better."

Junior forward Nikos Psarras

"The crowd is always amazing for our Homecoming game. It starts with them. It's great having everyone here and we are excited for the game on Saturday."

"Last year was special. I was coming off an injury and was very excited to play. Buffalo was undefeated and a good team but we wanted to win very badly."

"It's perfect timing having a conference game during Homecoming. UMBC is a great team and we are looking forward to it."

An Even More Special Week

For freshman midfielder Noah Luescher, the week has a bigger meaning for him. In addition to playing in his first Homecoming match at the Bearcat Sports Complex, his parents are in town from Switzerland and are planning to stay through Saturday's match.

"I am really excited for the game," he said. "The upperclassmen have told me how amazing Homecoming is both before and after the game with everyone supporting us. My family is also here so I am really excited for this weekend."
Before the game though, Luescher has other plans with his parents.

"They got here yesterday so today I am going to show them around campus, show them where I live and who my friends are," he said.

Social Media Update

Just how nice of a morning was it at the Bearcats Sports Complex? Click here for a photo courtesy of the Binghamton men's soccer Instagram site.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History: October 6, 2006

In a game that was interrupted due to an hour thunderstorm at the old West Gym Field, Binghamton defeated Hartford 1-0 on a first-half goal by Peter Sgueglia. It marked the first of four straight wins that vaulted the Bearcats into first place in the America East.

Posted October 4, 2017 at 10:30 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu
 





October 3, 2017

Homecoming Week Begins

While the men's soccer team continues to prepare for its Homecoming match on Saturday against UMBC, we've checked in with some of our alums. They have provided us with their memories of Homecoming Weekend during their careers.

First, here is 2013 graduate Jake Keegan, who now plays for F.C. Edmonton of the NASL:

"Playing on Homecoming at Binghamton was a one-of-a-kind experiences. Between all the alums coming back, the Hooligans—who were a constant presence at all of our matches and the other family and students on hand, it was definitely the best atmosphere of the season."

Cameron Keith, who scored the game-winning goal in the 2007 Homecoming match against Boston, contacted us after the 10-year anniversary article ran last week.

"Hard to believe it's been 10 years since that match. Hopefully the team still has the video of it."

Sorry to say Cameron—but we did not start live streaming the men's soccer matches until the next season – 2008.

Darren McAllister, who was on that 2007 squad, also remembers that epic 2-1 overtime win over Boston.

"Out of the homecoming games I have to say the overtime win against Boston was the best! Cammy was on fire, the whole teams gave every ounce of fight we had that night and we were rewarded! An amazing game with an amazing finish! Who can forget the celebrations up on the fence!"

Reading List

Click here for the Pipe Dream's recap of the Stony Brook match.

Social Media Update

The Binghamton athletic department is already gearing up for Homecoming. Click here for the banner in the Events Center that awaits our alums this weekend – courtesy of the men's soccer Instagram site.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History: October 3, 2009

Speaking of Homecoming, a facility record 2,604 fans watched the 1-1 tie against Rhode Island in the 2009 version of that event.

Keegan scored the game-tying goal midway through the second half.

The most memorable part of the game, however, came courtesy of Rhode Island's Kevin Shaw. After he put his team up 1-0 early in the second half, he went over to the Hooligans and took a bow. By far, the most creative opposing celebration we've seen.

Posted October 3, 2017 at 5 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




OCTOBER 2, 2017

Weekend Wrap Up

For the second consecutive year, Binghamton and Stony Brook played to a scoreless tie.

Some other quick notes from the weekend:

True to form, the America East had a wild first weekend, with preseason first-place favorite UMass Lowell losing to Albany and nationally-ranked New Hampshire falling to UMBC.

Click here to check out the current standings and results – which are bound to change week to week.

Homecoming Week Begins

Speaking of UMBC, we are five days away from the Bearcats' Homecoming Weekend game against the Retrievers. The athletic department has been getting ready for the big weekend by Painting the Paws outside the Events Center.

Binghamton University President Harvey Stenger dropped by on Friday to show his support for the project. Click here to check out the photos, courtesy of the Binghamton Athletics Facebook Page.

We'll start our coverage on Homecoming Week and check back in with the team tomorrow.

Posted October 2 2017 at 8 a.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




SEPTEMBER 28, 2017

Top 5 List: Binghamton vs. Stony Brook

It's been a while since we had one of our top 5 lists – but with Stony Brook being the first America East opponent of the season, it's time to go over the top 5 Bearcat-Seawolf matches.

Since 2002, it has been one of the most siginificant rivalries in the America East.

October 23, 2002
Binghamton 3, Stony Brook 1

In the first-ever Senior Day during Paul Marco's tenure as head coach, it was then freshman Graham Munro who converted a pair of penalty kicks.

November 12, 2005
Stony Brook 1, Binghamton 1
America East Finals
Stony Brook wins PK Shootout 4-2

Although it was a loss, the 2005 title game between Binghamton and Stony Brook deserves to be on this list. Kyle Antos put the Bearcats up 1-0 in the first half but the Seawolves rallied to tie the game in the closing seconds of regulation.

It was also the final game for the senior class led by Graham Munro and Danilo – perhaps the most significant class in the program's Division I history.

October 14, 2006
Binghamton 1, Stony Brook 0

Liam Carson's goal in the 80th minute gives the Bearcats a 1-0 win over Stony Brook at the Bearcats Sports Complex. The victory avenged the previous season's loss in the America East title game.

Binghamton went on to capture the America East championship three weeks later.

November 8, 2014
Binghamton 1, Stony Brook 1
America East Quarterfinals
Binghamton wins PK shootout 4-3

In the first-ever penalty kick shootout in a men's soccer game at the Bearcat Sports Complex, Robert Moewes made three saves as the Bearcats won their America East quarterfinal game. Forgotten in the match was Tucker Sandercock's game-tying goal late in the second half.

November 7, 2015
Binghamton 3, Stony Brook 2
America East Quarterfinals
 
In arguably the greatest and most dramatic comeback during Binghamton's 17-year Division I era, the game is without question the top game it's played against Stony Brook.

Binghamton rallies from a two-goal deficit late in the second half to win 3-2 in the America East quarterfinals at Stony Brook. Nikos Psarras tied the match late in regulation and Pascal Trappe won it during the first sudden-death overtime period.

Honorable Mention – September 12, 2001

Of course, the most historic game between Binghamton and Stony Brook came one day after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Stony Brook won the match 1-0 but to the players on both sides, just being out on the field and dedicating the day to those who lost their lives was what really mattered.

Posted September 28, 2017 at 10 a.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu
 
 



SEPTEMBER 27, 2017

Odds and Ends

Obviously, a tough loss at Cornell last night.

Today, with the Bearcats having a light recovery work out, we look over some items from the past and present.

The Last Time It Happened…

Haris Brkovic is the first Binghamton player to have back-to-back multiple-goal games since Cameron Keith back in 2007. Keith had a hat trick in the Bearcats' 3-0 win in the first men's soccer game played at the Bearcats Sports Complex on Sept. 29, 2007. He followed up with two more goals a week later in the Bearcats' 2-1 Homecoming win over Boston University.

Speaking of 2007

We have posted our 10-year anniversary piece of that first men's soccer game at the Bearcats Sports Complex.

Click here to read it, and view all the related photos and video clips.

Social Media Update

Click here for both of Haris Brkovic's goals courtesy of the Binghamton Men's Soccer Twitter page.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History: September 27, 2016

We didn't have to look back far for this one.

Ben Ovetsky's first-half goal and Chris Shutler's first career shutout powered Binghamton to a 1-0 win over Bucknell at the Bearcats Sports Complex.

Click here for the recap

And click here for the highlights.

Posted September 27, 2017 at 12:00 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu





SEPTEMBER 26, 2017

Looking Back and Looking Ahead

Before we get to tonight's match against Cornell, some stats to consider:

- Binghamton is averaging 2.00 goals per game. That is the highest average since the 2004 squad averaged 2.10 goals per game. In the NCAA stats, the Bearcats are ranked No. 20 in scoring offense.

- Junior forward Nikos Psarras had scored six career goals heading into this season. He has six goals thru the first eight games. In the current NCAA stats, he is ranked No. 17 with 0.75 goals per game.

- Defensively, Binghamton has shown improvement over the past three matches, allowing just 0.90 goals per game.

Special Visitors

At Saturday's win over Canisius, Binghamton has three alums from the nearby Buffalo area come out to the match. Former Bearcat captain Ryan Walter (Class of 2012), Taylor Kucharski of the women's soccer team (Class of 2012) and Matt McCoy (Class of 2015) were all on hand.

We spoke to Walter after the match. He is in his sixth year as a Senior Associate at PricewaterhouseCooper while Taylor is a Project Specialist at Graybar Electric. They both live in the Buffalo area.

Walter, for one, was pretty impressed with the Bearcats performance.

"The team looked great," he said. "They dominated possession and capitalized on their chances. Both the second and third goals were highlight worthy. It was great to see a Bearcat win."

In going back through the record books to see when the last time Binghamton scored five times in a match, we noticed that Walter's last match as a Bearcat was a 5-1 Senior Day win over first-place Boston University in October 2011.

While it wasn't the most recent five-goal game by Binghamton, it's a match Walter will always remember.

"That Boston game was a great way to end my career," he said.

Binghamton and Cornell

The Bearcats and Big Red have had several memorable matches during the past decade but perhaps the most significant one came 10 years ago this week. In the first men's soccer game ever played at the Bearcats Sports Complex, Cameron Keith scored a hat trick in Binghamton's 3-0 win back on Sept. 29, 2007.

Two years later, a torrential downpour at Berman Field forced the Binghamton-Cornell game to be pushed back over an hour. The Bearcats finally won 2-0 and Taylor Kucharski's older brother Kyle scored the game winner.

Five years ago, Cornell had become a nationally-ranked squad and their 5-0 win at the Bearcats Sports Complex on Sept. 19, 2012 remains the most goals ever scored by an opponent at Binghamton's home facility.

Let's Go To The Video Tape

Click here for Spectrum News' report on Haris Brkovic being named the America East Player of the Week.

Reading List

Click here for the current America East stats and click here for the NCAA statistics for more details on the Bearcat rankings among all Division I teams.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History: September 26, 2010

Speaking of Cornell, the Bearcats and Big Red played to a scoreless tie seven years ago today at the Bearcats Sports Complex.

Posted September 26, 2017 at 9:30 a.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




SEPTEMBER 25, 2017

Victory Monday

First off, a personal story to put Saturday's 5-1 win over Canisius in perspective. I was tracking the match at home when the internet at my house went down early in the second half.

As a result, I missed the first 10 minutes in the second half, which started with the Bearcats hanging on to a 1-0 lead. When I was able to get the live stats on my phone, I figured the score was still 1-0. After all, how much can happen in 10 minutes?

Well….

In a performance that had us scrambling through the record books, Binghamton score three times in a span of 2:30 to win 5-1.

Here are some of the players' thoughts after the match:

Junior back Kevin Flesch

"We started the game off well and were focusing on keeping possession and keeping the ball rolling. We stuck with the game plan and it worked out the way we expected.  The goal in the first half gave us confidence going into the second half. Once the second half started, we kept playing and being patient and it paid off. It was a great result, which we need heading into the week."

Junior forward Nikos Psarras

"We had the right mentality even before the game since all we were thinking about was the win. We had a touch week in training but it paid off and we got a big win. It meant a lot to us."

Kudos

Our sports information office has done a very good job at making the in-game videos you see on Twitter. Our intern Hayoung (who we profiled earlier in the season) has done fantastic work.

Two weeks ago, Hayoung asked me for  a list of names of potential scorers so she could make some of the in-game videos (which we call GIFs). I didn't however give her Haris Brkovic's name. My fault, not hers.

Little did I know he'd be the America East Player of the Week.

Congrats to Haris. Click here for more details.

Reading List

Click here for the Pipe Dreams' recap of the win at Canisius.

Let's Go To The Video Tape

If you have yet to see it, here is the video of all five goals from Saturday, courtesy of our Facebook page.

Major thanks to the Canisisus sports information office. Not only were they prompt and friendly with the request for footage, but their ESPN3 broadcast was very fair during the second-half goal outburst. They were very complimentary of Binghamton.

Social Media Update

Click here for one of our in-game Twitter GIFs from Saturday. Again, our compliments to Hayoung for her great work.

Coming Up Next…

We had some special alums come to the match on Saturday. Plus we have lots of stats to go over. And oh yes, there is a match tomorrow night at Cornell.

Check back tomorrow.

Posted September 25, 2017 at 4:20 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




SEPTEMBER 22, 2017

Heading to Canisius

After five matches in a stretch of 16 days, the Bearcats had a week to regroup before traveling to Canisius tomorrow. The extra days of training also featured some players returning to action from injuries.
We caught up with the squad following Friday's training session.

Head Coach Paul Marco

"I thought we've had a very good week of training. The guys have worked very hard, especially in a couple of the sessions. They've put in the extra time and we are getting fitter. Today was a light day in preparation for tomorrow. We have a couple of new faces back on the team and we'll hopefully see them more and more over the next couple of weeks."

"Canisius is an outstanding team. They dropped their first match to Stony Brook on a couple of set pieces and then go on this (six game) run. I've watched them a few times now and I'm very impressed with a couple of their players. Their spirit within the team is great. They are well organized and well coached."

Redshirt senior back and captain Charlie Novoth

"We are getting more guys back from injuries which means more competition on the field for spaces. This week has been a tough week. We've done a lot of running and are getting more fit. We are excited for this weekend."

"You always need time off between matches to regroup and refocus. This week has given us the chance to work through a few areas."

Junior back Kevin Flesch
"We had a pretty good and tough week of training. We focused on fitness a lot and we have some guys coming back to the team from injuries. Flo and Harry coming back will help us. Other than that, we are trying to possess the ball more and hopefully we can execute that well on Saturday."

"Columbia was a good team and they had a good striker up front. Besides the goal, I don't think we let them have the ball inside the box a lot."

Lacrosse?

The last thing one would expect to find on the soccer field are lacrosse nets. But that's exactly what Novoth and some of his teammates were placing in the box in front of the goal when they were practicing free kicks.

"Those are war dummies," he said. "We use them as defenders."

We asked Novoth if during matches, he will start to envision those nets during free kicks.

"Pretty much," he said.

Epilogue to the Narode Wedding Story

Speaking off lacrosse, Matt Narode contacted us about an interesting connection new bride Alissa has to Binghamton.

Turns out Alissa went to grad school at Binghamton and worked as an athletic trainer for the Bearcat women's lacrosse team during that time. Head coach Stephanie Allen, who she worked with, was a bridesmaid in the wedding last weekend.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History:  September 22, 2012

Binghamton begins a three-match winning streak with a 3-0 win at Adelphi. The victory avenged the previous year's 2-1 Homecoming heartbreaker at the Bearcats Sports Complex.

Robbie Hughes netted a pair of goals while Jake Keegan scored once.

And Speaking Of Homecoming….

Click here for the schedule of athletic department events. The three-day weekend will be Oct. 6-8.




SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

Blast From the Past

When head coach Paul Marco was done talking to his team following Saturday's match against Columbia, he headed outside the fence of the Bearcats Sports Complex, where he usually greets his family. It is a ritual he has done many times before heading into the Events Center for post-game interviews.

On Saturday, however, there was a special guest his greeted afterwards.

Karl Gerstenberger was an assistant coach at Mohonasen High School when Marco played there back in the 1980s. Three decades later, his daughter is a student at Binghamton University. With this Saturday being Family Weekend, Gerstenberger not only made the trip up to campus, but also stopped by to watch the Bearcats face Columbia – and to see his former player.

"I've seen Karl Gerstenberger twice in the past 20 years," Marco said. "Once he was officiating a game and I came up to him at halftime and gave him a big hug and then again on Saturday."

Thirty years after playing, Marco still credits Gustenberger with inspiring him to become a coach.

"He is one of the reasons why I am a coach," he said. "He was one of those guys who cared deeply about his players and about the game of soccer. He was a very good player and as a coach, wanted to see people only get better."
Marco has been known to spend extra time with his players after training. This is a trait he can trace back to Gerstenberger.

"Whether it is youth soccer, which we are involved in, or this team, I've always tried to take the extra time to help players get better," he said. "That is something I picked up from Karl Gerstenberger."
There was some unfinished business, however, from Saturday's visit.

"I still owe Karl's daughter lunch," Marco said. "If she is reading this, tell her she has until Friday to get in touch with me,"

Still Part of the Team

Four years ago, Coach Marco received a stuffed Theodore doll (from the Chipmunks cartoon) from one of his daughters to take to work. A reporter noticed the doll in his office and Marco said Theodore sat on the bench during home games and made the trips on the road.

When we talked to Marco earlier in the week, we noticed that Theodore was still there.

"Theodore still travels well with us," he said. "My daughter won't let me leave without him. I keep him with me for the whole season and she gets him back afterwards. If I go on a trip, even internationally, Theodore comes with me. He made the trip with me to the World Cup in Brazil in 2014."

Asked if Theodore could pass the dreaded Beep Test, Marco had a pretty strong opinion.

"I don't know if Theodore could pass the Beep Test but I know he is quick than some of our guys."

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History: September 20, 2005 and 2009

Binghamton has won a pair of games on this date during its Division I era.

The Bearcats beat Oneonta 3-0 in 2005 and UC-Davis 1-0 four years later.

Posted September 20, 2017 at 4:30 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu





SEPTEMBER 19, 2017

A Night To Remember

Matt Narode had a lot of special moments with his Bearcat teammates during his career from 2004-07. He was named second-team America East All-Conference as a senior and played in four straight conference title games. Winning the 2006 America East title has to go down as one of his biggest moments as a Bearcat.

This past Friday night, many of those teammates as well as Binghamton head coach Paul Marco made the trek to the Albany area for Narode's wedding. For Narode and his wife Alissa, the support from the Bearcat alums meant a lot to both of them.

"It certainly meant a lot to have coach Marco and the boys present at my wedding," Narode said. "They have all played an integral part in shaping who I am today. I had a life-changing four years at Binghamton. Alissa and I couldn't have imagined our wedding day without such an amazing group of people."

The event meant just as much to Coach Marco, who left training early on Friday to be sure he was up in Albany for the big event.

"Seeing all of the guys was just terrific," he said. "It was great to share the moment with Matt and Alissa and then to have all of those alums back was great. Some of those guys I hadn't seen in a long time."

The gathering of former Bearcats meant just as much to Narode's former teammates.

"Each time we get together, it amazes me more and more, how it's still the same old group of guys, telling the same old stories and laughing at the same old jokes," Brendan McGovern said. "Reminiscing never gets old. We've all taken different paths, and we've all found our own version of happiness and success, but there is nothing better than getting back together with the boys."

"The weekend was fun," Ibrahim Yusuf added. "It was good to see all of the boys. Also, it was nice to see that we have all moved on but never seem to forget where we came from."

"Our friendship is such that whether it's been six hours, six weeks or six months, it doesn't seem to matter," David Grad said. "We are homies for life."

As he left Albany to prepare for Saturday's match against Columbia, Marco couldn't help but reflect on how special the bond is between all of his former players.

"The guys started as teammates but grew to be lifetime friends," he said. "The wedding was a testament to that."

Purple Shoes

Speaking of Grad, in 2006, he made a deal with Coach Marco. If the Bearcats won the America East title, Coach Marco would have to wear Grad's purple shoes to the NCAA Selection Show event.

Marco kept his word and the shoes appeared on multiple TV stations that night.

We asked Coach Marco if the notorious purple shoes made an appearance at the wedding on Friday night.

"I did not see purple shoes at the wedding," he said. "I left early but maybe if I had stayed, they would have appeared."

We Found the Answer

While Nikos Psarras didn't extend his goal scoring streak on Saturday, we were able to come up with the answer to a question – has anyone from the pre-Division I era had a goal-scoring streak greater than four games?

Jake Keegan scored in four straight games in 2011, but that's the highest total during the program's 17-year NCAA Division I era.

Thanks to some group e-mail by longtime coach Tim Schum, we traced the answer, sent in by one of his former players:

In 1971 Rich Kristof scored in five consecutive games. In 1972, Feyyaz Baskent scored a goal in each of the first five games. The player said the streaks might actually be but he didn't have the records from specific games.
Still, that's good enough for us to put in our record books.

Many thanks to Coach Schum for his help.

Social Media Update

Click here for another photo from Narode's wedding, courtesy of the men's soccer Instagram page. It was sent in to us by one of his Bearcat teammates who was there. 

This Day In Binghamton Men's Soccer History: September 19, 2015

The Bearcats win 2-1 over Siena at home behind a pair of goals by Zach Galluzzo. Binghamton improved to 5-2-0 with the victory.

Click here for the recap. 

Posted September 19, 2017 at 4 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




OCTOBER 18, 2017

Columbia Wrap Up

A crowd of 1,476 and an unbeaten opponent receiving votes in the national polls provided for a great backdrop for the men's soccer team on Saturday.

Despite the 1-0 loss, head coach Paul Marco and captain Charlie Novoth saw plenty of positives coming out of the match.

Perhaps the most heartwarming part of Saturday was the return of Florian Orth and Harrison Weilbacher from injuries. They each subbed in late in the second half.

Head Coach Paul Marco

"From a performance standpoint, I thought we did quite well in the game. But from an outcomes standpoint, I'm absolutely gutted that we conceded a set-piece goal. They read the path of the ball sooner than we did, and it was a little disappointing because I thought we could have been better in that moment."

"We're trying to increase competition in the team in every position, from the striker back to the goalkeeper. I think that we're being as fair as possible to the guys — we're giving everybody a fair shake in training and we're giving everybody a chance to earn their time."

Senior Captain Charlie Novoth

"We definitely played well today. We lost our focus during the goal which is disappointing because defensively, we played a lot better."

"It was great to get some of our guys back (from injury) today. Harry (Weilbacher) changes the game. You've seen what he has done in the past and Flo (Orth) is someone we've needed in the midfield."

"It was a great crowd today. We appreciate everyone coming out and we definitely feel their support during the match."

Reading List

Click here for the Pipe Dream's recap of the Columbia match.

Let's Go To the Video Tape

Click here for FOX40's coverage of the Columbia match.

Social Media Update

Some great crowd shots from Saturday, courtesy of university photographer Jonathan Cohen, on our Athletic Department Facebook page. Click here for the photo gallery.

Congratulations to former Bearcat standout and assistant coach Matt Narode. He got married on Friday night and a good contingent of his former teammates made the trip.

Click here for some of the photos on the men's soccer Twitter page.

We'll have more on the reunion over the following days.

On the Menu

Didn't get a chance to have much on Saturday at the post-game tailgate but from what we saw, there was plenty of pizza, chicken and the Italian pasta salad that was a huge hit after the GW match.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History: September 18, 2004

Charles Darkwah and Mike Austin each scored twice as the Bearcats won 5-0 at Niagara to improve to 5-0-3. The Bearcats were ranked No. 19 in the nation in both major polls at the tie.

Ten Years Ago….

Ten years ago today was the first game played at the Bearcats Sports Complex by any team…the women's squad took on Syracuse before over 900 fans.

Click here for a look back at the top women's soccer games played at the Bearcats Sports Complex.

And Speaking Of Women's Soccer….

The Bearcats just concluded a 6-1-3 non-conference schedule this past weekend. America East play begins this weekend at New Hampshire.

Posted September 18, 2017 at 3:30 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




SEPTEMBER 15, 2017

Home At Last

Binghamton finally returns to the Bearcats Sports Complex three weeks after its 4-0 season-opening win at George Washington.

Head coach Paul Marco was on the WNBF Morning Show to preview tomorrow's Family Weekend match against Columbia and to talk about the state of the team.

On the tandem of Nikos Psarras and Noah Luescher:

"The two of them have been outstanding. They've really given our opponents a challenge and hopefully it continues for us and only gets better."

On the team's offense:

"Usually a team is similar to how a coach would play. When I played at West Virginia, I was a goal scorer. I played up front and I enjoyed the soccer play. Still our teams through the years at Binghamton have been known for hard-nosed competitive defense. This year though, we are scoring goals but we are leaking them in too."

On Columbia:

"They are a very good team. They are probably the favorite in the Ivy League. I have seen them now three times. They are a veteran team. A couple of their older players are seniors. They have some players up front who will be a handful. We will have our work cut out for us to defending which is great for us because we really need to show some more grit when we play defensively."

On the expected 80 degree game time temperature on Saturday:

"It's about time we got some heat here. Summer in September isn't a bad thing."

Family Weekend

Binghamton has played twice before on Family Weekend, when the Saturday game has been bumped up to 1 p.m.

In 2014, the Bearcats defeated New Hampshire 1-0 on a goal by Derrick Ladeairous in the 80th minute. Click here for the recap.

The following year, Binghamton defeated defending America East champion UMBC 2-1 keep them tied for first place in the conference. Pascal Trappe and Harrison Weilbacher scored second-half goals in the victory. It was also the team's Senior Day game Click here for the recap.

Both games were played before over 1,000 fans.

One note on the win over UMBC. Pascal Trappe's penalty kick goal was set up when Nikos Psarras was fouled in the box.

Psarras, who was a freshman that season, had yet to score a goal. Trappe said afterwards during the interviews that Psarras was overdue to score.

Well….

Psarras scored the game-tying goal in Binghamton's 3-2 overtime win over Stony Brook in the America East semifinals two weeks later, tied for the team lead with five goals last year and already has five goals this season.

We agree with Trappe. Psarras was certainly due to score.

Let's Go To The Video Tape

Click here for Spectrum News' report on Noah Luescher's impressive start to his career.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History: September 15, 2015

Alex Varkatzas scored in the 67th minute, leading Binghamton to a 1-0 win over Cornell on the road. It was the Bearcats third shutout of the season.

Click here for the recap.

Posted September 15, 2017 at 9:30 a.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu





SEPTEMBER 14, 2017

Alumni Update: Robbie Hughes

Robbie Hughes transferred to Binghamton in 2012 after two years at Syracuse. In his second match as a Bearcat, he faced his former team. His gracious interaction with his former teammates was just one of the reasons he earned the America East Sportsmanship Award the following spring.

As a senior, Hughes was the team captain and the undisputed leader of the team. Current captain Charlie Novoth, who was a true freshman that year, spoke fondly of Hughes when we interviewed him last year.

After Binghamton lost in overtime to Hartford in the America East quarterfinals that year, coach Marco wasn't just gutted over the season being over. He told us he couldn't believe he wouldn't get to coach Hughes and fellow senior Marts Reid-Warden ever again. That made the loss all the more crushing to him.

To no one's surprise, Hughes turned to coaching after his career at Binghamton. He earned his master's degree at Bloomsburg and was an assistant coach with the men's soccer team during that stretch of time.

Hughes, who currently works for Deloitte as a Technology Consultant, still keeps in contact with many of his former Binghamton teammates.

"I'm still in contact with plenty of the lads," he said I can't get rid of Alan Duff (although I've tried), Tommy Klim still asks me about leg exercises he could do to better shape his pins and Trey Jasenski continues to ask me to be his business partner. I just got a Snapchat from Alan Hughes saying that is missed me a lot."

Hughes credits Coach Marco for helping him become the player, leader and coach he turned out to be.

"I think just the responsibility Coach Marco gave me from the first time we met shaped me as both a player and as a person," he said. "I'm extremely grateful to him for that."

While he is busy with his current career, Hughes still follows the progress of the current men's soccer team closely.

"I always keep up with the current Bearcat squad and look for the results weekly," he said. "Charlie Novoth must be at least 32 by now but still has eligibility some how.I hope the lads continue their run of good form and extend their season until there are no leaves left on the trees."

We Found The Answer

Nikos Psarras has scored in three straight games and we wanted to find out when the last four-game scoring stretch took place. We didn't have the answer on Monday – as we confessed – but we do now.

Hughes' teammate, Jake Keegan, scored in the first four games of the 2011 season.

We have asked former Binghamton head coach Tim Schum if any of his Division III era All-American ever had a five-game scoring stretch.

Hopefully, all this speculation won't jinx Psarras.

Reading List

Click here for the Pipe Dream recap from the match against American.

Programming Note

Coach Marco will be interviewed on the WNBF Morning Show with Roger Neel tomorrow at 8:40 a.m. to preview the match against Columbia on Family Weekend. Click here for the WNBF live link.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History:  September 14, 2008

Binghamton defeats No. 21 Wisconsin 1-0 on a goal by Andy Teidt in the 36th minute. It marked the Bearcats third-ever win over a nationally-ranked NCAA Division I program.

Posted September 14, 2017
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




SEPTEMBER 13, 2017

Odds and Ends

A few notes as we hit the midweek point:

Click here for an excerpt of head coach Paul Marco's interview after today's training session.

Click here for photos of Coach Marco and Charlie Novoth during today's interview session.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History: September 13, 2013

Binghamton wins 2-0 at home against Buffalo. Steven Celeste had a first-half goal but it was Robbie Hughes celebration after the second goal that was the moment to remember. The senior captain ran over to the sidelines at full speed blowing kisses to the crowd.

Social Media Update

Click here for a photo of Hughes' celebration from that game on our Binghamton Athletics Facebook site. 

Speaking of Which...

We caught up with Robbie Hughes recently and will have an update tomorrow.

Posted on September 13, 2017 at 5 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




SEPTEMBER 12, 2017

Final Thoughts From the Weekend in D.C.

We caught up with several players to get their perspective on the two matches this past weekend and the week ahead.

Senior forward Ben Ovetsky

"We have a full week to reflect and prepare for Columbia. Every individual has to reflect and work harder to prepare for Columbia."

Junior back Kevin Flesch

"We are looking forward to next weekend because it will be the first home game in a while. This week, we will get some players back from injuries to further prepare us for conference play."

Junior forward Nikos Psarras

"Both games slipped away from us this past weekend. We were on top of the games both times but things didn't go as we wanted them to. Still, both results belong in the past and we have to keep moving forward and prepare for Columbia."

Social Media Update

Speaking of Psarras, he is our Miller Auto Team Binghamton Athlete of the Week. Click here to go to his interview on Facebook Live.

For a photo Psarras' goal from yesterday, click here to go to the Binghamton men's soccer Instagram page

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer: September 12, 2001

It's not often that we mention a loss but this is an exception.

Binghamton was scheduled to play Stony Brook on September 11, 2001 at the old West Gym Field. Obviously, that did not take place once the attacks on New York City and Washington D.C. took place.

Stony Brook had no way to get home, so the decision was made to play the match the following day. It was believed to be one of the only sports events contested the day after one of the worst days in American history.

Keith Augeri, a junior on that 2001 team, is now a social studies teacher in Long Island. Every year, he tells his class about what it was like to play on that day.

Unlike when he first started teaching, Augeri's current students do not recall September 11, 2001. They view it as another historical event, like my generation views the 1963 Kennedy Assassination or World War II. They did not experience it.

For those of us who did, however, it remains one of the defining moments of our lives.

West Gym Field was never quieter than it was on September 12, 2001. The most poignant moment of the day was the national anthem. I was the scorekeeper at that game and while I have heard the national anthem hundreds of times during my career, that rendition is the one I will remember the most.

For the record, Stony Brook won the game 1-0 but the Bearcats played with heart the entire match. Both teams did. As Augeri said, both teams played as a way of honoring those who had lost their lives the previous day.

Augeri once told us how later in the season, on the way to Adelphi, the team saw Ground Zero within a few months of the attacks. We can only imagine how they felt at the time.

We'll head back to the training field tomorrow but for today, it is worth remembering one of the most significant days in program history.

Posted September 12, 2017 at 4:30 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




SEPTEMBER 11, 2017

The Week in Washington D.C.

Two matches and a total of 207 minutes played against George Mason and American. That's what the men's soccer team got out their five-day trip to Washington D.C.

A lot to go over from the past several days:

By The Numbers

Following today's match, junior forward Nikos Psarras is tied for the America East lead with five goals and is tied for second with 10 total points. Freshman midfielder Noah Luescher, meanwhile, also has 10 total points and ranks second in the conference with four assists.

Click here to go to the current America East statistics.

Quite A Tandem

Luescher has assisted on three of Psarras' five goals this season, including one in each of the last three games.

We'll try and catch up with the two of them later in the week to talk about their effective partnership.

Looking for Answers

We are trying to find out the last time a Binghamton player had three straight games with a goal. We've looked through the last 10 years with no answers.

Speaking of no answers, we have text messages out to the players for quotes on today's match. They must be too exhausted to respond right now..

Team Bonding

It wasn't just playing a pair of games this weekend for the Bearcats, they got to bond away from the field by going to D.C. United's game on Saturday night.

"Our guys are getting along great right now," head coach Paul Marco said. "Playing the two matches was great and going to the D.C. United was a great experience away from the field."

Kudos

Our sports information office asked captain Charlie Novoth and Ben Ovetsky to take over the athletic department's Instagram site this weekend. Their job was to create an Instagram story of their trip, with the images disappearing after 24 hours.

When we checked the account during the weekend, they were doing a great job. How else would we have found out they were at the D.C. United game.

Reading List

Click here for the Pipe Dream's recap of Friday's match against George Mason

This Day in Binghamton Bearcats History: September 11, 2005

Binghamton wins 1-0 at Duquesne to improve to 3-0-1.

The Bearcats were supposed to play a game on this date four years earlier. But that did not take place.

We'll visit that story tomorrow.

Posted September 11, 2017 at 4:20 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu
 



SEPTEMBER 7-8, 2017

Family

As you no doubt have noticed, today is a double-day entry.

I will actually not be covering the Bearcats' game at George Washington tomorrow but rest assured, it will be covered.

Instead be out of town visiting family. Specifically, my stepdad's birthday will be celebrated. I won't mention the age – it's just a number – but for the reasons I'll express shortly, the impact my stepdad has had on me transcends any age.
There are some definite links between my stepdad and the men's soccer program, which is why this forum is appropriate for talking about him.

Through the 18 years of covering the Binghamton men's soccer program, I have always been impressed as to how many parents have shaped their sons into the great student-athletes they are.

While my athletic eligibility ended in 1992, after four years of running track and cross country, the impact my stepfather has on my life and current career has not.

I first met him in 1981, was honored to be there when he married my mother in 1985. I have seen first-hand what a first class person he is. He has always treated me as if I am his own son, even as an adult.

My stepdad is an accomplished professor at the University of Maryland and is one of the most humble and genuine people you'll ever meet. Thank goodness my mother keep me in the loop about all of his professional accomplishments – which are many. I would never know otherwise.

My stepdad is a writer and has frequently read many of my works that appear online. He also has asked how the men's soccer team is doing. He always asks me the most profound questions that in turn, have sharpened my interviewing skills substantially.

The first Binghamton men's soccer game my stepdad went to was a 1-0 win over Maine in 2005. Graham Munro, who was that year's captain, immediately caught his attention. He has returned, with my mother to a handful more over the years.

My stepdad was a varsity basketball and baseball standout at Princeton University as an undergraduate. Again, he would never be the first person to tell you how good he was. When his son played high school and college basketball, my stepdad never flaunted what he has accomplished back in his day. He was just there to be a supportive parent. I know because I was in the stands with him.

So many Binghamton men's soccer players have come into Binghamton with the same mindset -- you'll never hear them brag about their accomplishments. They remind me a lot of my stepdad and I am sure they will have the same role in their kids' lives as my stepdad has had in mine.

This past August 25 was my mom and stepdad's 32nd wedding anniversary. It was also the same day as the season opener against George Washington. We talked for a while and the final words they said were "Good luck to the Bearcats tonight!"
It's moments like these the make me realize how connected the men's soccer team has been to my own family over the years.

I have been fortunate to be part of the men's soccer family since I arrived here at Binghamton at 2000 and especially since Coach Marco came here in 2002. But I have been even more blessed to be part of my own family.

We'll be back on Monday.

Posted September 7, 2017 at 1 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




SEPTEMBER 6, 2017

Alumni Update: Jake Keegan

As promised, we caught up with 2013 alum Jake Keegan, who is in his second year with F.C. Edmonton of the North American Soccer League (NASL).

F.C. Edmonton made the NASL playoffs in Keegan's first season with the club. This year, however, has been slightly more challenging for the squad.

"My second year hasn't been quite as successful as the first," he said. "We made the playoffs in the first but we are currently on the outside looking in. We've been on a good run of form lately though so hopefully we can make a late push for the championship."

Keegan's schedule during the season is busy. He travels all over North America with F.C. Edmonton. Still, he manages to keep in contact with quite a few of his former Bearcat teammates.

"I keep in contact with quite a few of the guys I played with at Binghamton," he said. "I was able to escape away from Edmonton last year long enough to go to Tommy Klim's wedding and it was great being able to catch up with a bunch of the guys in person."

When pressed to mention his favorite memory at Binghamton, Keegan found it wasn't easy to single out just one specific moment.

"It's tough to pick one favorite memory but we were so lucky to be able to play the game we love with such a great group of players while having no worries in the world aside from the occasional finance exam," he said. "I will say not winning an America east title will tick me off forever. Hopefully the boys this year can ease my anger a bit."

It's also tough for Keegan to put into words how the Binghamton men's soccer program helped him become the player and person he is today.

"I cannot even count the ways the program helped me," he said. "From Paul Marco and the coaching staff to the veteran guys who taught me how to be professional and set a good example for me. Sports puts you in so many different situations that force you to decide the kind of person/athlete you want to be and being able to grow up and learn at a place like Binghamton University played a huge impact in who I am today."

In the midst of his busy schedule, Keegan still finds time to follow the current Bearcat squad.

"I've watched a bit of the first two games this season and the squad looks like it has the talent to compete with anybody," he said. "With Tommy Moon and Bret Celeste on the staff along with Coach Marco I have a few guys that give me a bit of an inside scoop to what goes on and I wish the team nothing but the best for the rest of the season."

This Day In Binghamton Men's Soccer History: September 6 , 2013.

Speaking of Tommy Moon, his first half goal propelled the Bearcats to a 1-0 win at American on this day four years ago.

Binghamton heads down to the Washington D.C. area for another crack at the Eagles on Monday.

Posted September 6, 2017 at 1 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu
 
 
 
 
SEPTEMBER 5, 2017

Odds and Ends

Some miscellaneous things to go over as the Bearcats begin to train for the weekend trip to Washington D.C.

America East Stats

Noah Luescher is fifth in the America East with 1.5 points per game, tied for third with 0.50 goals per game and tied for second with 0.50 assists per game. 

As a team, the Bearcats are tied for fourth with 1.75 goals per game and are fourth with a 1.25 goals against average.

Click here for the complete America East stats on their webpage.

Social Media Update

Click here for a photo of alums Darren McAllister (2008) and Chris Terry (2010) in Scotland on the Men's Soccer Instagram page.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History: September 5, 2009

Kyle Manscuk's goal in the first sudden-death overtime lifts the Bearcats to a 1-0 home win over Colgate.

It turns out Manscuk had been waiting weeks for a new pair of cleats to arrive and he got them just in time for the game against the Raiders. During the post-game interviews, he mentioned that he wore the cleats for the first time.

Manscuk had been asking his father for quite some time to be on the look out for the cleats being delivered to their house -- and he finally got the long-awaited phone call earlier in the day.

After graduating in 2010, Manscuk went on to play with the Rochester Lancers of the MISL.

Posted September 5, 2017 at 5:20 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




SEPTEMBER 4, 2017

Labor Day Updates

After two matches and a nine-hour bus ride home, the Bearcats have today off. Still, we are here and we'll go over a few notes before having some vacation hours of our own.

Around the Conference

The eight teams in the America East are a combined 18-8-1 so far this season.

Like Binghamton, several squads faced stiff competition this weekend.

Click here to go to the America East Men's Soccer web page.

Bearcats In the Pros

Jake Keegan, a 2013 Binghamton alum, is in his second year with F.C. Edmonton of the North American Soccer League (NASL).

Click here for his bio on the F.C. Edmonton website.

Hopefully, we'll catch up with Keegan later in the next week or so.

Social Media Update

Click here for a photo of Keegan with F.C. Edmonton on the men's soccer team's Instagram page. Be sure to follow that page as well as the main athletic department instagram account.

Elsewhere on Campus

The Bearcat women's soccer team, which is now 4-1-1, had its Friday home match against Fairfield air on ESPN3. That is a first – but not a last – for Binghamton soccer in general.

The men's team's Oct. 7 Homecoming Game against UMBC and Oct. 21 match against UMass Lowell will also air on ESPN3.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History: Sept. 4, 2011

Four second-half Binghamton goals produced a 4-1 win over Houston Baptist in the final round of the West Virginia/Nike Classic.

All four goals were scored between the 73rd and 87th minute.

Speaking of Keegan, he had a goal and an assist in that game.

Posted September 4, 2017 at 2 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




SEPTEMBER 1, 2017

Final Note Before James Madison

First off, if you haven't read already, there has been a schedule change for tonight's game against James Madison. Kickoff is now at 5 p.m. – moved up from 7:30 p.m.

Around the Conference

Binghamton is one of four unbeaten teams remaining in the America East, which has gone 10-5-1 thru the first week of the season.

Click here to go to the America East Men's Soccer Website.

Social Media Update

Click here to go to the Binghamton men's soccer Twitter page for part of Coach Marco's comments to the media earlier in the week about the team's impressive start.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History – September 1, 2009

With three victories on this date during the program's Division I era, we have quite a few options.

We'll go with the historic game – Kyle Kucharski's three-assist performance in Binghamton's 3-2 win over Syracuse at the Bearcats Sports Complex. It tied the program's Division I era record for assists in a game (Peter Sgueglia also tallied three assists in the 2005 semifinals against UMBC).

Posted September 1, 2009 at 10 a.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




AUGUST 31, 2017

Press Clippings

With the men's soccer team on their way to James Madison today, let's go over some of the press it's gotten the past few days.

Click here for FOX 40's report from yesterday afternoon's interview session.

Click here for WIVT's coverage

Better Late Than Never…

Click here for Spectrum News' recap of Monday's 2-1 win at Colgate

Speaking of recaps, click here for the Pipe Dream's coverage of the match at Colgate

In the Polls

Looking ahead to the weekend, Virginia Tech is No. 15 in College Soccer News' Top 30 Poll and is receiving votes in the United Soccer Coaches (formerly the NSCAA) Top 25 Poll.

Click here for the College Soccer News Poll

Click here for the United Soccer Coaches' Poll

Programming Note

Head Coach Paul Marco will be interviewed live on the WNBF Morning Show tomorrow with Roger Neel at 8:40 p.m. EST. Click here to access the live link.

Since Coach Marco will be calling in from Harrisonburg, there will be no Cider Mill donuts during the interview this time….

Social Media Update

Click here for a photo of Chris Nkogue's goal against GW, which is on the men's soccer Instagram page. There is a team account in addition to the athletic department's account.

Speaking of which, click here for a photo of the men's soccer team on the main athletic department Instagram account, in honor of National School Colors Day tomorrow.

This Day In Binghamton Men's Soccer: August 31, 2003

Binghamton wins 2-0 over Mt. St. Mary's in its season opener. The match was part of the Rider Bronc Classic. It was the start of a season that included the program's first-ever America East title as well as a trip to the second round of the NCAA Tournament

Final Thoughts from August 2017

We've ended the first month of the season, as well as the Men's Soccer Daily Update. With a 2-0 start, here's to a good September.

Posted August 31, 2017 at 2:20 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




AUGUST 30, 2017

Alumni Update: Darren McAllister

From time to time, we catch up with men's soccer alums to see how they are doing. Today, we report on Darren McAllister, who played from 2007-08 after transferring from Virginia Intermont.

"It's hard to believe it's almost 10 years since I graduated," he said. "That's unbelievable! Thankfully I've been able to keep in touch with the majority of the guys and even see some of them from time to time! It was obviously amazing that quite a few of the guys managed to come to our wedding day."

When we spoke to McAllister earlier in the month, he told us of one of fellow teammates was on their way to Scotland for a visit.

"We're having Chris & Kim Terry visit and stay with us this weekend," he said. "Chris and I were very close at college but for whatever reason we haven't been able to see each other for a long time, it's going to be amazing to see him, and of course introduce him and Kim to my wife and son Jackson who is now two."

Professionally, McAllister is holding strong as a bulk specialist marine surveyor, for a company in his native Aberdeen.

"I've been working for the same company now for nearly six years," he said. "I'm a bulk specialist marine surveyor for Swan & Co. Marine Surveyors here in Aberdeen, but I work abroad quite a bit. I'm currently working in Trinidad but also work in Brunei and Azerbaijan. We control bulks that are used for drilling wells offshore. It is a great job and I've certainly managed to work in some pretty cool places and meet some great people."

With Jackson now a part of his family, however, McAllister leaves no doubt what his top priority is.

"Jackson is the apple of my eye, he's an amazing little boy who really has changed my outlook on life! He's my priority now, as long as he is healthy and happy then I am happy too! My wife and I are extremely blessed to have him."

College may be a long way away for Jackson but McAllister already sees soccer potential in his young son.

"I'm pretty sure already that Jackson will be a soccer player when he's older," McAllister said. "He loves kicking a ball around with me and I'm pretty sure he's better at shooting than (Kyle) Kucharski (Class of 2010) already! I have to make sure he can time tackles better than his dad too. I might have to ask (Ryan) Walter (Class of 2012) or Liam Carson (Class of 2010) to give him some lessons because they were slightly better at timing than me."

While McAllister is focused on his family now, he will always be grateful for the years he had at Binghamton.

"I miss the guys and being around campus," he said. "But instead of being sad that it's over, I just remain happy and proud that it happened! We all came together for a reason and it turned out to be pretty special! We had an unbelievable group of guys that I'll always stay close to."

It won't be long, however, before McAllister catches up with his former teammates again.

"We actually got a 'save the date' card in the post this week for Cody Germain's wedding next year," he said. "It's in San Diego so we will definitely be making a trip out for that! We can't wait!"

This Day In Binghamton Men's Soccer History: August 30, 2015

Pascal Trappe's goal in the opening minutes leads Binghamton to a 1-0 win at No. 28 Ohio State. 

Click here for the recap.

Speaking of Trappe, he dropped by our office the other day to say hello. He made it out to part of the win over George Washington on Friday and remains on campus working towards his graduate degree.

Social Media Update

We remembered the win over Ohio State on our Binghamton Bearcats' Facebook page as well today. Click here to go to the post. 

Posted August 30, 2017 at 12:00 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu
 
 
 


AUGUST 29, 2017

Colgate Wrap Up

Yesterday, we said that all of the previous August 28th Bearcat matches had been losses and that we were looking for a standout win to change that.

Let's just say, we got our answer.

A 2-1 win over a Colgate squad that won the Patriot League last year and advanced to the NCAA Tournament last year was pretty impressive. And it happened on the road no less.
Some quotes from the team after the win:

Junior back Kevin Flesch

"It was a tough game but we battled hard and got the result that we wanted. Colgate was extremely composed on the ball but we adapted to those challenges and are bringing home an important result."

Head Coach Paul Marco

"We got on top of the match for the second game in a row. Alejandro was outstanding in goal, especially at the end of the game and our two wide backs were fantastic."

Super Stopper

While the Bearcats have averaged 3.00 goals per game during the first two victories, the aforementioned Alejandro Cubillo has been stellar at the end of the past two games.

He made a pair of close-range saves to preserve the shutout against George Washington on Friday. Last night, Cubillo made a pair of saves during the final three minutes to protect the lead.

The Last Time It Happened

The 2009 season marked the last time the Bearcats started off with a pair of victories. A 3-2 win over Syracuse and a 1-0 overtime victory over (guess who?) Colgate both took place at the Bearcats Sports Complex.

Accolades for Luescher

One day after being named the America East Rookie of the Week, freshman midfielder Noah Luescher was named the Miller Auto Team Binghamton Athlete of the Week.

Click here to go to a Facebook Live interview with him.

And if you have yet to read it, click here for the article about Luescher being honored by the America East.

Social Media Update

Click here to go to the Binghamton men's soccer Twitter account, for this post-game photo of Chris Stamper, who scored the game-winning goal against Colgate.

Elsewhere on Campus

It's not just the Binghamton men's soccer team that is unbeaten. Despite tying Niagara 2-2 last night, the women's team is now 3-0-1.

This Day in Binghamton Men's Soccer History: August 29, 2014

After a scoreless first half, the Bearcats got goals from current captain Charlie Novoth and Luca Bottoni to win 2-1 at Bucknell. The Bison got their goal with just one second left in regulation.

Posted August 29, 2017 at 3:45 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




AUGUST 25, 2017

George Washington Post Game Notes

Earlier in the week, we picked the best game from each of the first 10 years the men's soccer team has played in the Bearcats Sports Complex.

It's far too early to pick the best game this season but let's hope tonight's 4-0 win over George Washington is definitely the leader in the clubhouse – to put it in golf terms.

Here's a few leadoff notes from tonight's win.

Home Sweet Home

Noah Luescher finished the game with a goal and an assist. He also had the most profound postgame quote during the interviews with the media.

Luescher, who came from Switzerland, was asked how he had been adjusting to life away from his home country.

"The guys on this team have been a big help," he said. "In the beginning, I was homesick for the first week or so. I missed my family and I missed my friends back in Switzerland. But the guys on this team have been great. I got a lot of help from the team and the coaching staff in adjusting here."

One player who Luescher has gotten to know very well is senior captain Charlie Novoth. The two players have been on the field during their off time, practicing their shots.

"Charlie is a great captain and a great leader," he said. "He always tells us freshman to work hard and improve our game and it's a pleasure to be on the team with him."

This was the first time Luescher had played at the Bearcats Sports Complex. The crowd support (928) fans left him very impressed.

"It was amazing," he said. "Playing in front of that big a crowd makes the soccer heart beat pretty strong."

There was one part of the game day experience Luescher was unfamiliar with – the post-game tailgate. We have him if he was ready to get up to it following the interview. He asked what it was and we said it was the "victory feast."

"I am definitely ready for that, he said."

How Prophetic

When we talked to junior forward Nikos Psarras a week ago during preseason, he was raving about how much more offensive depth the team had this year.

He was right, judging by tonight. By the time he scored in the 87th minute, the Bearcats were already up 3-0.

"We have a lot good forwards on the team this year," he said. " I am so proud of the guys this year. I knew we had the people up front to do what we did tonight."

Learning from the Past

Last year, the Bearcats had trouble finishing off games they had a 1-0 lead in. On opening night this season, however, the team was determined not to continue that pattern.

"Last year, we struggled to keep up (the momentum) and score the second and third goals," junior midfielder Florian Orth said. "It was great to see that were able to continue put pressure on GW and score the second and third goals right away in the second half. It was an amazing performance."

Debuting in Style

Binghamton started five newcomers against George Washington – Luescher, Chris Stamper, Chris Nkogue and Lucas Arzan. Three more newcomers – Jack Muller, Tommy Jelstrom and Haris Brkovic.

Together, the new players account for three goals and three assists.

On the Menu

We stopped at the aforementioned post game tailgate and came away impressed with the first selection of the year. Included were Wegman's subs and Nirchi's pizza.

As for the homemade items, the Italian pasta salad and meatballs were a hit. When we asked the parent who made the meatballs what the secret ingredient was, he told us his wife kept it a secret.

Coming Up Next...

Head coach Paul Marco will no doubt be turning the page to Colgate on Monday.

But we will have some final thoughts on tonight's match.

Have a good weekend.

Posted August 25, 2017 at 11:30 a.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu
 
 



AUGUST 24, 2017

Our Top Rookie

We are very fortunate to have Hayoung Noh, an intern from Korea working with us this academic year in the Binghamton Athletic Communications Office. On top of her warm personality, she has proven to be very good at producing videos for our office.

Last year, two of our assistants came up with the idea to produce a preseason hype video for each of our teams. They were a smash hit. When Hayoung arrived here in May, she quickly latched on to producing such videos. She produced the end-of-year highlight videos for each of our spring teams.

During the summer, she did research on other sports teams to see what they were doing. Hayoung was out at several men's and women's soccer training sessions this preseason and produced a top notch video for the women's team before their August 18 home opener.

She just put out a similar video for the men's team. Click here to view it. We are sure many of you have viewed it already.

Hayoung will be a regular on the soccer field shooting video for us this season. For the highlight packages after each game, Hayoung will more than likely be the person to credit.

If you run into her, and you enjoyed the hype video, please let her know it. Like all of us, she will be wearing her press pass so you will be able to identify her :)

So while the men's soccer team has been excited about its top newcomers this year, I think its safe to say that we are just excited about our top newcomer to the Binghamton Athletic Communications Office.

Coming Up Next

Head coach Paul Marco will head down to the WNBF studio tomorrow to talk with Roger Neel about the GW match. We will have it on Facebook Live on the Binghamton Bearcats' page tomorrow at around 8:20 a.m.

Social Media Update

Nice work by the America East in posting the men's soccer team photo on its instagram site. Click here to view it.

Posted August 24, 2017  at 4 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




AUGUST 23, 2017

Preseason Wrap Up

Binghamton has concluded the preseason, with its final two-a-day session earlier in the week. 

After facing Drexel early last week the Bearcats went back on the road for a scrimmage on Sunday at Niagara. To the Bearcats, their performance against the Purple Eagles was a sign of progress since the start of preseason.

"It was good to get the (1-0) win and we ironed out some of the things we've been working on since the start of preseason," senior captain Charlie Novoth said. "As a collective group, we are coming together and everyone is excited for Friday.

One other key development in preseason -- head coach Paul Marco and his coaching staff did not win last week's Bearcat Open Golf Tournament for only the third time since 2002.

"We had an off day," he said this week. "But hopefully that's because our focus was on the preseason. Some of the groups played very well ahead of us.

Reading List

With the students back on campus, so is the Pipe Dream newspaper. Click here to go to their men's soccer season preview. 

The season ticket scarf, which now includes all men's and women's soccer and lacrosse games is now on sale. Click here for more details. 

Social Media Update

Last night the athletic department held its Welcome Back BBQ for all of the student athletes. Courtesy of the men's soccer instagram account, check out this photo from the event.

Posted August 23, 2017 at 5:30 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




AUGUST 22, 2017

Eclipse? What Eclipse?

On Monday afternoon, senior Charlie Novoth and freshman Noah Luescher were busy kicking around the soccer ball during an off day of training. It wouldn't have been usual but during the time they were out there --2:39 pm to be exact -- the height of the solar eclipse was taking place.

We spoke to both of them before 2:39 and they seemed unfazed by the upcoming event.

"We don't need to see the goal when we are kicking around the ball," Novoth said. "Even if it goes dark, the ball is going in the net. Every time."

"We just care about goals right now," Luescher added with a smile.

The Bearcat duo was busy but did say they would take a pause to look up once in a while -- but not at the sun of course.

Turns out the eclipse did not have an impact on the action. It got no darker at the Bearcats Sports Complex. Novoth and Luescher continued to practice their shots.

When head coach Paul Marco was told about Novoth and Luescher practicing through the elipse -- a first for players in his program -- he knew what their mindset was.

"I don't even know they were aware the eclipse was taking place," he said. "They are so dialed in to what is going on right now soccer-wise. It's been outstanding to watch the two of them."

Social Media Update

Click here for the video of Novoth and Luescher taking free kicks -- right before 2:30 p.m. -- on the men's soccer Instagram site.

Coming Up Next....

We'll talk to the team about its second and final scrimmage of the preseason - a 1-0 win at Niagara on Sunday.

Posted August 22, 2017 at 8:20 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu





AUGUST 21, 2017

Happy Anniversary

On Friday night, the Binghamton men's soccer team begins its 11th season with the Bearcats Sports Complex as its home facility.

Since September 29, 2007, when the Bearcats hosted Cornell, there have been 122 Binghamton men's soccer matches played at the Bearcats Sports Compex. The Bearcats have gone 38-27-12 during the past decade, hosted six America East Tournament games and averaged 900 fans per contest.

The first men's soccer game at the Bearcats Sports Complex featured Cameron Keith scoring a hat trick in Binghamton's 3-0 win over the Big Red. There were 1,862 fans in attendance, which remains the ninth-largest crowd in facility history.

So as we approach the 10-year anniversary of that match, we look back at the best men's soccer match played at the Bearcats Sports Complex in each of the previous 10 years.

October 6, 2007.
Binghamton 2, Boston 1 (OT)

Yes, the match against Cornell was impressive. But Keith outdid himself the next week, scoring both goals in the Bearcats 2-1 overtime win over the Terriers. The night started out disastrous, with the formal dedication ceremony for the Bearcats Sports Complex getting rained out. On top of that, Boston scored early in the match to go up 1-0.

Keith then tied the game late in the first half and scored the game-winning goal with time running out in the first overtime session. The post-game celebration, which included Keith and his teammates rushing the stands remains one of the defining moments from the past decade at the Bearcats Sports Complex. 

October 18, 2008.
Binghamton 1, Vermont 0

In a rematch of the 2007 finals, Binghamton gained revenge with a 1-0 win over Vermont. Cameron Keith scored the game-winning goal in the 68th minute.

The game marked the first-ever sellout at the Bearcats Sports Complex (2,500) as well as the first regionally-televised game (Time Warner Cable Sports). In addition, Binghamton University hosted its first-ever Homecoming Tailgate prior to the match -- a tradition that has been continued ever since.

October 7, 2009.
Binghamton 2, Albany 1

It was a fine line between winning and disaster in the Bearcats' America East 2009 opener.

With the score tied at 1-1 in the first overtime, Jason Stenta saved a penalty kick to keep the Bearcats in the game. Less than two minutes later, Adam Whitehead ended the game with an overtime goal.

October 30, 2010
Binghamton 1, New Hampshire 0 (2 OT)

In its Senior Day game and regular-season finale, Binghamton need three points to clinch a first-round home playoff game. With time running out in the second and final overtime period, Tommy Klim netted the game winning goal.

October 30, 2011
Binghamton 5, Boston Univ. 1

Binghamton missed out on the America East Tournament but ended the season with a 5-1 win over eventual regular-season champion Boston. Jake Keegan had two goals and an assist.

The game was supposed to be played the previous day, but a freak snowstorm forced the postponement. Several hours before the match, a group of staffers were still shoveling off the bleachers.

September 29, 2012
Binghamton 2, New Hampshire 1 (OT)

Jake Keegan had a banner 2012 season, scoring 11 goals and earning first-team all-conference and third-team all-region honors.

His biggest goal, however, came in the first overtime during the Bearcats conference-opening game against the Wildcats.

October 12, 2013
Binghamton 3, UMass Lowell 0

Logan Roberts had a goal and an assist but this game will be remembered for Ben Nicholson's flip.

Before the majority of the fans were in their seats, Nicholson scored a goal from outside the penalty box just three minutes into the match. He then ran over to the crowd and did a flip.

University photographer Jonathan Cohen had a busy night, going from one Homecoming event to the next. He told us he could only stay the first five minutes. Fortunately, he was standing right where Nicholson did the flip and his photo become one of the most iconic sports photos he's shot over the years.

November 8, 2014
Binghamton 1, Stony Brook 1
America East Quarterfinals

It was the first-ever penalty kick shootout in a men's soccer game at the Bearcats Sports Complex. After playing the Seawolves to a 1-1 draw in an America East quarterfinal match, the Bearcats won the decisive shootout 4-3.

Robert Moewes came up with three saves in the six rounds. Current volunteer assistant coach Bret Celeste, meanwhile, scored the game winning in the bottom of the sixth round.

It must be noted that the first-ever shootout in any game at the Bearcats Sports Complex came during the Binghamton women's 2009 semifinal game against Maine. The Bearcats tied Maine 0-0 but won the decisive shootout 4-2.
 
October 24, 2015
Binghamton 2, UMBC 1

In a game which lifted Binghamton into first place in the America East, it defeated defending champion UMBC 2-1. The game was played on a Saturday afternoon, in conjunction with Family Weekend, and drew 1,073 fans.

Pascal Trappe converted a second-half penalty kick and Harrison Weilbacher netted the other goal.

September 26, 2016
Binghamton 3, Buffalo 0

Nikos Psarras recorded the first two-goal game of his career as the Bearcats beat Buffalo 3-0 before a Homecoming crowd of 1,801 fans. It remains the 10th-largest crowd in facility history.

Best of the Rest

Here are a few of the other games that – while they did not make the cut – deserve to be singled out.

November 14, 2007

In the America East semifinals, Cody Germain's first-half goal lifts the Bearcats to a 1-0 win over UMBC and their fifth straight trip to the America East title game.

October 15, 2008

Justin Leskow gave perhaps the best post-game quotes of any player. He scored the game-winning goal in Binghamton's 1-0 win over Hartford and followed up with his signature interview.

"Some may call it a world class goal. Some may not. But nevertheless, the ball found its way in the back of the net and we won 1-0."

October 6, 2009

The largest crowd in facility history – 2,604 fans – watched Binghamton and Rhode Island play to a 1-1 tie.

That match will also be remembered for the best opposing player reaction to scoring a goal. Kevin Shaw broke a scoreless tie early in the second half, came over to the student section and took a bow.

October 13, 2010

Scott Zobre scored the game-winning goal in Binghamton's 2-1 win over Hartford. When describing the goal to the local media afterwards, he said the goal was scored during a fernufel.

The term fernufel was coined within the team two years earlier but Zobre's mention had at least one reporter asking on the air what it meant. WBNG reporter Brendan O'Reilly even had the word's WHAT's A FERNUFEL running on the screen during Zobre's interview.

Posted August 21, 2017 at 1 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghatmon.edu
 

 


AUGUST 16-18, 2017

Three Days Rolled Into One

You read it right. This update covers three days.

Yours truly is getting one last vacation before opening week. With that in mind, we have lots to go over to cover the rest of the week.

Scrimmage vs. Drexel

Binghamton ventured to Philadelphia on Tuesday and came away with a 2-2 tie against Drexel. We caught up with the team this afternoon to get their thoughts on the match.

Head coach Paul Marco:

"I thought we started the match pretty well and improved throughout the day. Our fitness - or lack thereof -- showed in the match. Hopefully we are going to get fitter every day. Yesterday showed great promise. We have some pretty good players."

Senior forward Ben Ovetsky

"It was a very positive match. There was a lot of things we can work on but we created a lot good scoring chances and took care of the ball well."

Sophomore back Stephen McKenna

"It was good to get out there and play another team. We showed some good things and look to keep getting better."

The Bearcat Open

One of the signature events of preseason returned after being rained out the previous two years -- The Bearcat Open.

Binghamton ventured to a nine-hole, par-three golf course over in Chenango Commons on Wednesday afternoon. There were some experienced golfers and quite a few novices.

"It's a good time to get out and get to know each other better," Mike Kubik. "Today's weather is great and everyone's having a lot of fun out there."

Coach Marco and his group of four staff members have routinely won the event each year, with the exception of two seasons. Watching his team play the course,  he felt good about continuing their success.

"Everyone on the course looks very beatable today," he said. "Our staff has won all but two years -- and both of those years are under review."

There were some memorable shots on Wednesday, in a not-so good manner. One shot off the tee deflected off a tree and went clear to the other side of the fairway. Another tee shot featured the golfer losing a grip on his club.

In talking to the veterans, however, they definitely remember the worst shot they have seen -- which came back in 2014.

"My freshman year, Isaiah Barrett borrowed Matt McCoy's club to tee off on the first hole," Ovetsky said. "Both the ball and the club went into the pond 10 feet away."

We asked some of the players if they thought McCoy's club was still in the pond.

"Definitely," Kubik said. "It's rusting very well."

Elsewhere on Campus

The women's soccer team opens its 2017 season on Friday at home against St. Bonaventure. Click here for the season preview.

A Dedication

Finally, a personal note to close out the week.

On the first day of the 2014 preseason, Coach Marco told me the entire team was going to take part in the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. It was the first time I heard of the craze that was sweeping the nation. 

We talked about getting the media and campus photographer to the event and we were able to generate a lot of good coverage. 

One day later, I was challenged by another coach in the athletic department and took part in the event myself. Coach Marco even showed up to soak me.

I thought that was the last time I would be a part of the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. But I was wrong.

On my birthday that year (September 30), the team gave me the traditional three flips in the air. Much to my surprise, however, they then drenched me with a bucket of ice water. Coach Marco said in honor of the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, each birthday flip ended with a bucket of water. Unlike the team, I did not have a change of clothes and had to explain to my family why I looked so out of sorts when I walked in the door that night.

It was great to be involved with a coach and team that did a lot to raise awareness for ALS. In the back of my mind, however, I wondered if there was anyone I knew that we were helping who had ALS.

Three weeks ago, I got my answer.

A high school classmate posted on Facebook that one of my best friends growing up died of ALS on July 21. His name was Mike Murray and I had lost contact with him in the years since graduating from Wootton High School (located in Rockville, Maryland) in 1988. Mike was very popular within our circle of friends but he was not as well connected on Facebook.

Turns out Mike was diagnosed in 2013 and put up a courageous 4 1/2-year battle against the disease. The same month the men's soccer team (and I) took part in the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, Mike took part in the challenge himself. By then, he was in a wheelchair and couldn't even move his arms. The University of Maryland men's basketball team, whom Mike was a diehard fan of, was so moved by his efforts that they honored him at one of their home games that season. 

I was able to contact Mike's family when I found out about his death. His wife sent me some links to articles about Mike that had been written over the years. Some of our mutual Facebook friends told me how much of a champion Mike was in battling the disease.

I also called the Maryland Athletic Department, where I worked from 1995-2000 to let the men's basketball team's PR person know about Mike's passing. Turns out that the PR guy remembered Mike and his family very well from that visit three years ago and thought the world of them.

I felt horrible that I did not know about Mike's condition during his last four years. I wished I could have supported him in some way during his plight. Then I realized, in working with the men's soccer team, I was given the chance to spread awareness about his battle against ALS without knowing it. The opportunities that I got back in 2014 mean even more to me now and for that, I have the Binghamton men's soccer team to thank.

Mike leaves behind a wife who was both strong and supportive as well as two young kids. All of them need thoughts and prayers. But he also left behind a legacy as a loving father and husband and a great friend to many of us.

This is the 10th year that I am writing the Men's Soccer Daily Update. With that in mind, this year's edition, as well as my work with the team, is dedicated to the memory of my late friend Mike Murray. Like our classmate said, he fought ALS like a champion. And with the men's soccer team having given me the opportunities to promote and take part in the ALS challenge three years ago, its only fitting that I use this season to remember Mike and honor the champion he was. 

For more on Mike's battle with ALS, click here. 

Have a good weekend everyone.

Posted August 16, 2017 at 7:50 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




AUGUST 15, 2017

Challenge Accepted: Part 2

Last week, we caught up with Ben Ovetsky, one of the two returning starting strikers on the team.

At media day last week, head coach Paul Marco talked about Ovetsky and Nikos Psarras, both of whom led the Bearcats with five goals. He challenged each of them to not be tied in scoring this year.

Ovetsky welcomed the challenge and yesterday, we talked to Psarras to get his thoughts.

"Of course," he said. "I am trying to score a lot of goals this season and help our team win. But I am going to need Ben up there with me to have a chance to do that."

Psarras cracked the starting lineup late in his freshman year and except for injuries, has kept his position. He had plenty of opportunities to play with Ovetsky last year and cites a strong working chemistry between the two.

"We play together very well," Psarras said. "We have gotten to the point where we understand each other's games very well."

Psarras is a member of the team's leadership group for the second straight season. He clearly enjoys the responsibility that comes with it.

"I want to be an example for the incoming players so I can teach them what's right and what's wrong," he said. "I like being a leader."

While Ovetsky is the only remaining player from his freshman class, Psarras is part of a large 2015 rookie class that has primarily stayed in tact.

"Our class was large coming in," he said. "We have stayed connected and really become like a family. It's been great."

Putting it in Perspective

The America East preseason poll came out today and while the Bearcats were picked eighth, there are a few notes that should be mentioned:

The America East had the third-highest RPI in the nation last year. Six teams, including Binghamton, were regionally ranked. Three teams were regionally ranked and a pair of squads made the NCAA Tournament.

UMBC, which made it to the College Cup semifinals in 2013, was eighth last year but gave many conference opponents a run for their money.

Bottom line – all eight teams are worthy opponents and have been a fixture in the top 50 percent of the NCAA RPI index.

Click here for the complete poll

Reading List

Speaking of national rankings, check out College Soccer News' Preseason Top 30 Poll, which includes Albany at No. 19 and UMass Lowell at No. 28.

Complete Poll

Coming Up Next…

It's the Bearcat Open golf tournament tomorrow – one of the signature event of the preseason.

Posted August 15, 2017 at 4:40 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




AUGUST 14, 2017

Say Cheese

After a weekend of continued training, the Bearcats took time out for the team photo and head shots on Monday afternoon. Click here for the roster, team photo and head shots.

Social Media Update

Click here to go to our Instagram site, which has each of the class photos.

Reading List

An interesting take on TopDrawerSoccer on how to make the most of preseason. Click here for the article

Posted August 14, 2017 at 5:45 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




AUGUST 11, 2017

Challenge Accepted

On Thursday at the Bearcats' preseason media day, head coach Paul Marco singled out Ben Ovetsky and Nikos Psarras as the squad's top two returning goal scorers. He then talked about the challenge that he issued to both of them.

"Ben and Nikos each had five goals last year and this year, I challenged them not to be tied at the end of the year," he said. "This year, I'd like them not to be tied at the end of the season."

We caught up with Ovetsky after the morning session and he confirmed Marco's challenge.

"He expects more from both of us this year," he said. "And he should."

Ovetsky and Psarras both emerged during the 2016 as the Bearcats top targets up front. Along the way, they developed solid chemistry playing together.

"I'm excited to play with Nikos again this fall," Ovetsky said. "Our chemistry is good and can only get better."

In addition to Psarras, Ovetsky is excited about some of the newcomers up front through three days of training.

"Most of the newcomers have been very impressive," he said. "They are challenging Nikos and I. In my four years here, this is the most depth we have up front."

Ovetsky is the lone remaining member of the 2014 incoming class but he has been pleased to see the large 2015 and 2016 freshman classes stay in tact.

"It's tough being the lone survivor from freshman year," he said. "But I'm glad to see each year, more and more people have stuck with it."

We hope to hear from Nikos next week….

Let's Go To The Video Tape

Check out the coverage from yesterday's Preseason Media Day

FOX40

We'll be back on Monday

Posted August 11, 2017 at 4:50 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




AUGUST 10, 2017

Meet the Press

After its first three training sessions of preseason, head coach Paul Marco as well as captains Charlie Novoth and Kevin Flesch met with the local media to talk about the upcoming season.

If you have yet to see it, click here for complete coverage.

Some takeaways from media day:

Binghamton returns its top two goal scorers from a year ago -- with Nikos Psarras and Ben Ovetsky each scoring five times. Coach Marco has challenged them this year NOT to be tied for the lead.

"We'll see which one of them can bang in more goals,: he said."

Novoth, who is in his second year as a captain, was cited by Coach Marco as a outstanding leader.

"Charlie came back in outstanding shape. His fitness is very good and he has led by example from the moment the guys got back here (on Tuesday)."

Novoth and Flesch showed up to media day with shirts that had the word JOURNEY written under the Binghamton logo.

"When my class was freshmen, we made the journey to the America East finals," Flesch said. "We want to get back there and feel we have a very good plan to do that."

Social Media Update

Click here for an instagram collage of all three Fall Preseason Media Days.

New this year, we are looking to put video clips of the men's soccer interviews on the team's Twitter page. Click here for today's post.

Posted August 10, 2017 at 4:45 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




AUGUST 9, 2017

Reference Guide

We'll let the guys recover from the Beep Test and first training session today. With tomorrow being media day at 3 p.m., we'll catch up with Coach Marco, Charlie Novoth and Kevin Flesch at this time.

In the mean time -- for those of you who are new -- here is key list of websites and social media platforms we will be on this year:

Facebook

Click here to get to the Binghamton Bearcats Facebook Page. We will carry most press conferences live on this site. Please note that the press conference will stay up here afterwards.

Twitter

Cick here for the Binghamton Men's Soccer Twitter page. We will have all in-game updates here.

Click here for the Athletic Department website. Major Binghamton sports news will be posted here. In addition, we will re-tweet selected items here.

Instagram

Click here for the Binghamton Athletics Instagram site. We will post game-day graphics and other photos here.

America East Conference

The America East re-designed their webpage this summer. Click here to go to the men's soccer page.

National Orgainizations and Websites

United Soccer Coaches (formerly the NSCAA)
College Soccer News
Top Drawer Soccer
NCAA Men's Soccer

Elsewhere on Campus

The Binghamton women's soccer and volleyball teams hosted their preseason media days today. Click here for the women's soccer coverage and here for volleyball.

Posted August 9, 2017 at 4:45 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




AUGUST 8, 2017

First Day Back

Around 10 a.m. this morning in the Events Center, the Binghamton men's soccer team gathered in the lobby of the Events Center. The majority of the players arrived back on campus Monday but today was the first time they met with the coaches.

"It's great to be back and see everyone again," junior Florian Orth said. "Everyone is happy to see each other and we are looking forward to a great year."

"I'm excited to see all of the guys again," fellow junior Kevin Flesch said. "It's going to be great to get out onto the field again."

The Bearcats will have to wait another day to get out on the field. Tuesday was devoted to meetings with the coaches and administration.

The past two seasons, the Bearcats had a significant portion freshmen on the team. Although Binghamton posted back-to-back winning seasons, it welcomes the experience factor this year.

"We have a lot of returning guys and have been growing from year to year and becoming more mature," Orth said. "Being a bit older, it's a easier to understand the college game better."

Where's Roger?

It's been a staple of the first day of preseason for head coach Paul Marco to appear on the WNBF morning show with longtime host Roger Neel.

Not today.

Turns out Neel is on vacation this week – but for those of you older readers, he has confirmed to have already made a stop at his favorite local establishment. That would be The Cider Mill, which opened last week.

Not to worry, Neel and his bag of donuts will host Coach Marco next week.

Reading List

For those of you newer readers, we regularly post articles, rankings and video clips related to Binghamton and the America East whenever we can.

With that in mind, click here for the just-released NSCAA Top 25 preseason poll, which includes defending America East regular-season champion UMass Lowell at No. 18. College Soccer News, the other major poll, has yet to release its preseason rankings.

Last year, the America East had the third-best conference RPI in the nation and three different conference teams appeared in the national rankings at one point during the season.

The America East will release its preseason poll next week.

Coming Up Next

The notorious Beep Test followed by the first training session of the year tomorrow morning.

Posted August 8, 2017 at 4:45 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu




AUGUST 7, 2017

Introduction

Welcome to our 10th year of the Binghamton Men's Soccer Daily Update. We started this blog during the 2008 season and it has since become a popular staple of our coverage of the program.

The Men's Soccer Daily Update will be posted each week day. Depending on the games, there may be posts on Saturday or Sunday as well.

For those of you who are new to the program, the Men's Soccer Daily Update seeks to capture components of the Bearcat program that go beyond the box scores and game results. There has been plenty to feature. In addition to advancing to the America East title game seven times since 2003, the Binghamton men's soccer program has been just as successful in the classroom and as active in the community.

Tomorrow, the men's soccer team reports back to campus to begin the 2017 preseason. We will begin our daily coverage then as well.

We hope that the Men's Soccer Daily Update will be a consistent source of news and information throughout the upcoming season.

Posted August 7, 2017 at 10:30 p.m.
Feedback can be sent to dobrian@binghamton.edu