222 Athletics Fresh Meat The men’s soccer team works together with new teammates this year. Ahead of the 2024 season, the Harding men’s soccer team showcased a fresh crew at the Stevens Soccer Complex. The squad boasted 16 new players with the team and focused on success and conference glory. Led by head coach Jon Ireland, the “new look” Bisons featured eight freshmen and eight transfer players. Despite having only 11 returning players from the 2023 season, the revamp was received with high praise from members of the team. Junior Matthew Sanchez said the team “meshed well” during pre-season training and conditioning. “I am really happy with the way Coach Ireland has recruited this year,” Sanchez said. “It seems like we already have a really good bond.” In addition, sophomore defender Brandon Southard said the new players were “learning their way” despite the quick offseason turnaround. “It’s probably pretty difficult for us to do what we are doing with the little amount we have known about each other,” Southard said. “It is pretty cool to see so far.” As the team’s chemistry continued to grow, the players began to showcase their goal-scoring prowess. The Bisons scored at least one goal in each of their first seven games for the first time in program history. Southard appreciated his part of this history despite his position as a defender. “Even though I do not get to contribute as much in the offense, it is cool to see the involvement,” Southard said. “I think we are going to continue looking like this when we get a couple things figured out.” Sanchez said the team’s forwards have been successful “on and off the ball.” “Our attacking depth and creativity has been crazy,” Sanchez said. Despite moments of hardship, the players look to better themselves on and off the pitch. Freshman Dylan Chambers said the team worked hard to learn different play styles. “There is definitely a learning curve,” Chambers said. “We have to learn each other’s habits and what they are going to do in games.” Chambers said the team looked to develop and improve while learning the ropes of collegiate soccer. “As the year goes on, I think we are going to get a lot better as a team,” Chambers said. “We are still getting used to playing together on the field.” While the team prepared for future matches, Sanchez said the players appreciated and encouraged fan support at the Stevens Soccer Complex. “Getting people there to rally behind us just makes a huge difference,” Sanchez said. Written by Nic Fraraccio NOT SO FAST At the home game against Union University, freshman Aitor Scholl takes the ball from an opponent. Scholl played for 33 minutes of the game. Photo by Abigail Callicoat
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