By Shilesky Montalvo ’19, Staff Writer

Five freshmen played in Lebanon Valley College’s season opener against Berkeley College last Thursday, but it was the juniors who stood out when it came to scoring.

After a scoreless first half, junior midfielder Matt Prince scored LVC’s first goal in the second half. The team’s second goal was scored by junior forward and midfielder Tyler Skye as the Fighting Dutchmen beat Berkeley 2-1.

Head coach Charlie Grimes is excited about this year’s team.

“This year’s incoming class is a good group,” Grimes said. “They bring a high level of energy and push our returning players.”

As far as expectations, Grimes has set high ones.

“Make the playoffs and play at the NCAA tournament,” Grimes said.

Helping to achieve those goals – five freshmen.  Mitch Crane is one of them.  He’s a starter from York, Pa. Tanner Therit also saw playing time; he’s from Littlestown, Pa. Both freshmen said it’s been a transition from high school soccer to playing college soccer.

“In college soccer, you have to be faster, and you play with people who are 3-4 years older and bigger than you,” Crane said.

Both freshmen admit to being nervous when meeting the upperclassmen.  They didn’t know what to expect.

“But right off the bat, the guys were very welcoming,” Therit said. “They made us feel a part of the team.”

And that team is hoping for a great season.  One game marked on the calendar is one against Messiah College on Oct. 1.  Till then, there are plenty more opponents to focus on. The team is now 2-0.

The next men’s soccer home game on Sept. 7 at 4 p.m. against Misericordia University.  Admission is free.

S.MONTALVO  SLM010@LVC.EDU