MONTGOMERY, Ala. ---- With the home season-opener a couple days away, head coach Kevin Ray and the Hawks are excited to contend in 2010.
“We’re looking to push the program over a 500 winning percentage and compete for the Great South Athletic Conference championship,” said coach Ray. Piedmont College will play host to the conference championship this season and coach Ray enjoyed the last time the tournament was played there. “The last time Piedmont hosted the conference championship we made the finals, so hopefully history will repeat itself.”
Junior Louis Hines and freshman Chris Blight were named the 2010 team captains during camp and head coach Kevin Ray is looking forward to their leadership. “Both Louis and Chris have the leadership skills to elevate this team to the next level.”
Coach Ray is excited about the players returning for the Hawks this year. Key returners this season are sophomore Stacy Terry and junior Dallas Thomas, who recorded four goals and three assists last season. “We need our returners to step up and help lead the largest incoming freshman class since I’ve been the head coach,” said Ray.
The Hawks added 22 newcomers this season and coach Ray has his hands full. “I’m excited about having such a large and talented incoming group, it’s challenging to make sure we’re getting everyone enough experience but it’s a good problem,” said head coach Kevin Ray.
First year players for the Hawks include team captain Chris Blight, who missed last season due to injury, “We’re happy that Chris has worked hard to recover and look forward to having him on the field this season,” said Ray.
The Hawks also add talent to the roster this season with freshman Hunter Howell and Kyle Nickels looking to bring their prep experience onto the field early in the season.
The men’s soccer team will play several in-state rivals this season including Birmingham-Southern, Faulkner, Montevallo and Spring Hill. Coach Ray hopes this year’s schedule will help position the Hawks to receive south regional rankings with key wins during the season. “Our schedule includes many colleges in the South region, which if we play well and win matches hopefully we’ll receive some regional and national spotlight this year,” said Ray.
The Hawks will open their regular season on Saturday, Sept. 4, when they host Emory and Henry College at the Huntingdon Soccer Field. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m., and admission is free.
For more information on Huntingdon athletics visit www.HuntingdonHawks.com.
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