Last year’s injuries and near misses had Oklahoma Baptist men’s soccer eager to turn the calendar once the season ended.
“Every game in the Sooner Athletic Conference is going to be tough,” Coates said. “I expect all the teams to be tough. We’re playing a lot of non-conference games against teams that beat us in close games or tied us last year and most of those are home games, so there’s a little revenge factor to motivate us.”
This year’s model is hungry to avenge some losses with a fresh look in the middle and some added talent throughout and will attempt to erase the memory of a 5-10-3 2009 season.
“I expect us to be more like we were two years ago (12-2-2),” said men’s soccer coach Brent Coates. “I’m excited about the possibilities.
All-Conference selection Victor Costa returns from last season and Luciano Rodrigues is back after injuries kept him out last season.
The addition of Tito Silva into the front mix could have a big impact.
Also looking to help at the forward spot are returning players Yalli Oliveira, Taylor Thompson, Nick Pettit, Connor Adams, Josh Bullock, Kenny Wall and freshmen Adam Salas and Dylan.
Returning midfielders include Andre Costa, Victor Conceicao, Kyle Kleeburg and Elliott Freeman. The freshman crop includes Andre’s brother, Matheus Costa, Corbin Campbell, Ruan Franca, Dillon Stallings, Logan Lax and Eryk Silva.
Ruan Franca is the brother of Caio Franca, who is likely to move from midfield to defense this season.
“We have Felipe Souza, who will anchor our defense and we are moving Caio Franca from mid field to defense to solidify us there. He’s the heart and soul of our team,” said Coates.
Also returning on defense are Cristiano Costa, JJ Hamon and Fletcher Bennett.
In goal, Jacob Hibbard returns with Arturo Diaz expected to provide the depth.
“We’re excited about a couple of freshmen – Adam Salas and Timothy Thomsen, who both played on Celtic 92, which won the Oklahoma state championship. We’re also expecting a lot out of Dillon Stallings and Corbin Campbell,” said Coates.
