Men's Soccer Begins Practice on Thursday

ASHEVILLE, N.C. - The UNC Asheville men's soccer team begins preparations for the 2011 season Thursday morning with its first practice.

The Bulldogs look to improve on last year. A year ago, Asheville competed hard and battled in every match but just couldn't get over the hump in a lot of matches as the Bulldogs finished with a 4-13-1 overall record.

Second-year coach Matt Kern believes Asheville can be better in 2011.

"We have a veteran team coming back plus some new guys who we think can help us right away," commented Kern. "We're a little more athletic in the midfield than we were last season, and I think everyone is ready to take the next step with our program.

"A key for us is improving our collective defending," added Kern. "We would like to decrease the number of shots on goal our opponents average per match."

Asheville returns a veteran team this season. The Bulldogs have eight starters and 17 lettermen back from last year's club. Kern also believes Asheville has brought in a strong recruiting class to go along with everyone back.

"I believe we have a nice mix with this year's roster," admitted Kern. "Our veterans are going to work well with the new guys to produce a good team."

Heading up the returnees is senior goalkeeper Lassi Hurskainen. The native of Finland has been a starter for the Bulldogs for his entire career and played in every minute of every match last year. He earned second team Big South All-Conference honors.

Also back are senior forwards, Bryan Bartels, Bryan George and Branden Lassen plus senior midfielder Jake Hagedorn. Senior defender J.J. Morrow will anchor the defense.

Asheville will have two exhibition matches to help prepare for the season. Both will be at Greenwood Field. The Bulldogs host Elon on Aug. 17 (4 p.m.) and Mars Hill on Aug. 20 (2 p.m.). Kern's club opens the regular season vs. Mercer at Greenwood Field on Aug. 27 starting at 2 p.m.