HOUGHTON, N.Y. --  A strong group of seniors helped lead Houghton men's soccer to a share of the Empire 8 regular season title in the spring. Now, with those players gone, third-year Head Coach Bobby McColl is looking to a younger group of players, including 11 freshman, to build on that success and move the team further into postseason play.

2021 Spring Record: 5-2-0 overall; 5-2-0 in the Empire 8
E8 Finish: 1st (tie) in regular season standings; lost in tournament semifinal
Players Returning: 15 (5 starters)
Players Lost: 10
Newcomers: 10  

Provide a quick recap of your abbreviated spring season and what you learned about your team during that time?
The spring was successful for our team as we returned to the field for the first time in over a year. On the field, we were competitive and finished regular season co-champions. Our team showed character and an ability to adapt to different challenges both on and off the field.

What team goals have you put in place for the coming season?
Having experienced post season play, we want to get back there build on the success of the spring.

What are the key things your team needs to do to meet those goals?
One day at a time. Don't look too far ahead.

What are your team's biggest strengths?
We have a group of very coachable guys who want to compete and want to get better. The freshmen have brought a lot of energy to the group and strong bonds are already being built off the field.

What are the team's biggest personnel losses from last season?
All nine seniors will be a loss. Their experience was vital in the success we had in the spring but we are excited to see guys step up and fill their shoes.

Who are the key returners and what do they provide the team?
We are fortunate to have Julius Klohr returning for a fifth year. His experience will be vital. We also have a strong group of juniors and some sophomores that played a lot in the spring.

Who are some of the key newcomers who could contribute and what do they bring?
With 10 freshmen on the roster we will need them all to step up at different points in the season. We are a younger team this season than the spring and there will be opportunities for them to play and contribute.

What are some of the key games on the schedule?
We have a tough non-conference schedule so there will be no easy games. Our hope is that sets us up well for Empire 8 play where every game is important.