HUNTINGDON MEN’S SOCCER TEAM BUILDING ON EXPERIENCE

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Huntingdon men's soccer coach Kevin Ray welcomed almost 30 players to preseason camp earlier this week.

Roughly half of the roster is made up of returning players. Of those returnees, six are seniors.

 "Those six seniors will really help us," Ray said. "Since 2007, we haven't had more than two or three seniors on the team. This group of seniors came up through the program, they know what to expect and we're looking for big things from them."

After four days of practice, Ray is pleased with the early progress.

"Most of the guys came in fit, so that was an advantage for us. It allowed us to get cracking right away and get into tactics," Ray said. "We struggled a little on Wednesday, the third day, but the mental toughness came through. We pushed through and Thursday was a more efficient day. We're looking forward to putting all of this into action Saturday against the alumni."

Ray said he has been impressed with several players so far. Junior Chris Blight drew praise, as did newcomers Jack Allen, Kenny Born and Kyle Hail.

"Chris has worked hard in the offseason to get his fitness up and he will be an integral part of the team this year," Ray said. "We're going to be looking for some things from Jack at the forward position. Kenny and Kyle have been impressive in the preseason. If they continue what they're doing, we'll see a lot of them this year."

Blight and senior Louis Hines are this year's team captains.

The Hawks' alumni game is set for 5 p.m. on Saturday. The regular season begins two weeks later in Emory, Va. The Hawks will play Emory & Henry College on Sept. 3 and Ferrum College on Sept. 4.

"The start of the season is what we're gearing up for," Ray said. "If everyone is in shape and healthy and we're on task, I think we'll be a match for anyone this year. We have a group of guys that are all pulling in the same direction."