When fans arrive at Kehoe Field this Friday for the first game of the men’s soccer season, one change will immediately be apparent. The raucous Hoya student section will be situated directly behind the eastern goal instead of the front row of midfield.
Jose Colchao isn’t afraid, he’ll make opponents afraid of him—and his elbows. (photo by Jackson Perry)
“We always get excited to play schools like Maryland and UConn because they have huge student sections that are in your face,” senior forward Jose Colchao said. “So we’re hoping to get a really exciting atmosphere out of this new student section.”
At the Tuesday night pep rally, head coach Brian Wiese wasn’t shy about his hopes for the new atmosphere, and he revealed that he wanted to create an uncomfortable experience for any team that comes to the Hilltop to play his squad.
The first team to experience the effects of this change will be the Northeastern Huskies, who look to be a serious challenge for the Hoyas in their first regular season game. Although they were picked to finish fourth in the Colonial Athletic Association, Northeastern is riding a wave of confidence from their strong finish at the end of the 2009 season. After putting together an impressive conference record, the Huskies reached the finals of the CAA tournament before falling to U.N.C. Wilmington.
“They’re going to be very tough and very organized,” Wiese said. “We’re going to have to work hard to break them down throughout the game.”
The Hoyas have certainly put in work during the preseason that should translate into a successful opening weekend. Besides their hard work, being away from their home field has possibly improved their mental toughness. After games against George Mason, Maryland, and D.C. United, which were all on the road, Wiese is expecting his veteran team to play extremely well in the opener.
“We’re playing at home and expecting a good performance,” Wiese said. “That being said, it’s a season opener, so everyone has the same record going into the game.”
After the game on Friday, Georgetown’s season continues on Sunday against Michigan State. The Spartans will be a tough test for the Hoyas, especially early in the season as they have been picked by many to be favorites of the impressive Big 10 conference.
But the Hoyas need not be intimidated by any opponent this year as Wiese is fielding one of the most experienced rosters to grace the Hilltop. Featuring 11 seniors and a host of seasoned underclassmen, Georgetown has an excess of leadership in every position on the field.
“Last year, we would look to one or two guys in clutch moments,” Colchao said. “This year, we have leaders all over the field who can carry the team.”
A win on Friday would not only be nice for the team’s record, but would also help set the tone for the new season. Experience the new student section and cheer on the Hoyas this Friday at 4 p.m. on Kehoe Field. Don’t forget your vuvuzela.
