In an unusual spring soccer season, the Cyclone men's team battled through a number of challenges, learned lessons and earned awards.

Head Coach Chris Koloffon took the reins of the program in 2020 after being the assistant coach for four years, but because of the COVID-19 pandemic, saw the team's typical fall season moved to March and wasn't allowed to have any formal practice until then. They had little time to work out before their first game on April 6.

The Cyclones only played seven games before requesting an end to the season because of injury. They started with 21 players and ended with 10 healthy guys. Even their top players were hurt.

"We learned a lot this season. One good thing was we got to see everyone play. A lot of newcomers got experience off the bench who might not have otherwise," Koloffon said. "The biggest positive overall was the guys really understood that if they expect to play and last in games, they have to take fitness seriously. We had too long of a layoff."

In the seven games they played (3-4 overall), they allowed more than two goals in only two games and only allowed one in four. Freshman Nikodem Kurzeja (Stagg) and sophomore Fernando Barragan (Reavis) each earned nods to the NJCAA All-Region IV team for their efforts and while injured to boot. Both plan to play for the Cyclones in the fall.

Because of the pandemic, the NJCAA is allowing players an additional year of eligibility. At least five Cyclones will return for a third year, including Barragan, who was captain of the team. Goalkeeper Andruw Martinez (Morton) also will return for a third season after a solid run guarding the net.

The Cyclones are hoping for a regular fall season for which Koloffon has already signed a number of talented players expected to make an impact while also lessening the chances of having a depleted roster.

"I'm excited for the fall. I brought in a lot of talent, and the guys are bright, excited and hungry to be here," Koloffon said. "A lot of guys got experience this past season, many of whom are coming back in the fall. We'll be ready to go."