By Kurt Miller
The Kalamazoo College men's soccer team came up just short of its 13th Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association championship in 2014 as it fell to Calvin College in penalty kicks in the MIAA tournament final, but the team hopes to build on its successes in the fourth year of the Lumumba Shabazz era.
2014 was the strongest year for the program, record-wise, since 2007 when the Hornets finished 12-6-1 overall and 9-4-1 in the MIAA. The Hornets ended 2014 with a 12-6-3 overall record and a 9-4-1 conference record.
However, each year presents its own set of challenges, and according to Shabazz, the Hornets have to put last season behind them.
"The league and the teams we face are going to be stronger and better than they were last year," Shabazz said. "Teams that we beat before are going to be motivated to play us this year. And teams that came up just short against us are going to be that much more prepared."
Fortunately for the Hornets, the team returns a strong core of talent. The team's leading goal scorer, Roger Mason Darling, is back for his senior season after scoring six goals in 2014. In midfield, All-MIAA selection Kyle Hernandez will be one of several talented players who will look to control the center of the park. In addition, the backline is anchored by All-MIAA and All-Region senior captain Jordan Veillette, who started all 21 games last season.
The team's group of underclassmen, which proved to be quite capable last season, will once again have to show its ability to contribute in 2015.
Despite having great individual talent, Shabazz believes his team's ability to function as one unit is the team's biggest and most important strength.
"We have strong team chemistry and that's more important than anything else," he said. "We could look at our backline, our midfield or our frontline, but we're one collective unit out there. It's all about the team and being a family. Of course, when you work well together and play well together, that allows certain individuals to receive personal accolades. But in our environment and culture, teamwork and individual sacrifice is valued above all else."
In regards to the season as a whole, Shabazz and the rest of his staff are looking forward to seeing the team grow into a championship contender. He also has high hopes for the team's ability to continue to reach out and create a sense of excitement and pride across campus.
"Last year we enjoyed the support of the entire campus on our championship quest and we hope that they will support us again because this journey will not be easy."
The Hornets first game of the 2015 season is scheduled for Sept. 1 at Elmhurst College. Their first home game is set for Sept. 12 against DePauw University, and the Hornets begin conference play on the road at Olivet on Sept. 16.