With 15 talented recruits, strong returners and a head start on training, Cyclone men's soccer is ready to face tough competition this season and go the distance.
The Cyclones last played an uncharacteristic seven-game spring season coupled with injuries and last-minute canceled matchups. After becoming head coach at the end of the 2019 season, Chris Koloffon wasn't able to experience a regular year with all of his recruits in top form. This fall will feel more like his debut, and he has the talent to turn some heads.
"We brought in 15 recruits, so it'll be a new team. We have a lot of All-State and decorated players from high school, plus we'll have key players back. We have a talented team. We're ready," he said.
Among the influential returners are All-Region IV forward Fernando Barragan (Reavis) and midfielder Colin Kroll (Sandburg). Both are back for a third season, thanks to the NJCAA pandemic extended eligibility. Barragan has bounced back healthier from injuries and will be the captain as well as the glue on the field, Koloffon said.
Some notable newcomers include midfielders Eduardo "Lalo" Franco and Jared Villasenor, both from Solorio Academy where they were city champions. The back line will welcome two All-State players in Aldo Lagunas (Bremen), at center back, and Carlos Villanueva (Eisenhower), at right back.
This group already has worked out early in preseason; they're gelling and happy to be here, all important elements when facing a competitive conference and region. Both entities had a realignment, so the Cyclones need to compete for the Skyway Conference championship and finish in the top four in their division in Region IV to go to the playoffs, but they have the talent to do just that, Koloffon explained.
"These guys know what they need to do. This is my team and the first time since I became head coach that I could fully recruit and prepare them. I'm starting fresh. I'm excited to put a stamp on the program as best I can and help guide the guys through this big part of their lives," Koloffon said. "I'm excited for the season."
The Cyclones play their first game on Aug. 31, 4 p.m., at Waubonsee Community College.