With a strong tradition that includes three NCAA Tournament appearances in the past 10 years and an NCAA Northeast Regional title, NYIT men's soccer strives to get back into the national spotlight this fall with a solid veteran cast and talented incoming class.

"We have a large recruiting class coming in," says Head Coach Carlos Del Cid (B.S. '97). "We have good players coming back and can cover every position."

The Bears' veterans are highlighted by Vinny Caccavale (pictured above), an All-East Coast Conference (ECC) First Team player. He led NYIT last season with 13 points on four goals and five assists. Also returning are Matthew DiDonna, Steffan Alm, and Jovan Pervaz. The trio combined for seven goals on the season, five of which were game-winners.

"It means a lot to have these types of players return, especially Vinny," says Del Cid of the potential All-American. "As a sophomore captain, we hope his winning mentality will rub off on our new athletes."

NYIT had a tremendous spring season that will help shape the team's attitude this fall. The Bears took on tougher-than-normal competition and won the Manhattanville 7v7 Tournament. The team also took two NCAA Division I opponents to overtime draws. 

"The spring definitely sets us up for a good fall season," says Del Cid. "The schedule was one of the toughest in the region. Most of the teams finished with a record of .500 or better. We're not playing easy games."

Two teams on the Bears' fall slate-Shippensburg and Dowling-advanced to the NCAA Tournament. For NYIT to be competitive this 2011 season, Del Cid emphasizes the need to be a contender down the stretch. 

"We need to be driven from start to finish," says Del Cid. "We need to be able to compete and play our game against anyone and on any day. Nothing is handed to you."

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Summer 2011 Table of Contents