The TRU Wolfpack Men’s Soccer team is enduring a challenging start to this season, with only one victory in six games, following their National title win last year. Hundreds of fans are eagerly awaiting a resurgence from the team next weekend as the Pack returns to Kamloops. The coaching staff and players are determined to establish a winning streak at home. The upcoming games against the University of Saskatchewan on September 23 at 5 PM at the MacArthur Island field and against the University of Fraser Valley on September 29 at 5 PM at Hillside Stadium could prove pivotal for the Wolfpack.
The TRU Wolfpack men’s soccer team commenced their 2023 season with high expectations following their remarkable success last year. However, as the first few weeks of the season have unfolded, it has become evident that the team has encountered a series of challenges that have left fans and supporters concerned. Being scoreless, losing to old rivals, and languishing at the bottom of the table after the first four games were not part of the plan.
Why is this happening?
It is apparent that the team is grappling with a few problems this season, one of them being roster changes. Given that athletes are only eligible to dedicate five years to the university team, maintaining consistency and staying at the top every year is a challenge.
“The departures of Jackson (Gardner), JJ (Josh Banton), Jan (Pirretas), and others were significant losses for us. They were talented players who contributed to our success last year. Integrating new players and adjusting to the changes has been challenging, especially in defense,” mentioned midfielder Marques Scott.
During this period, they have conceded more goals than expected, raising questions about their backline’s ability to withstand pressure. This defensive instability has led to several unfavorable outcomes in recent games. The number of conceded goals per game has almost doubled compared to last year’s stats. In the 2022 season, the team averaged 0.84 conceded goals per game, while this season, the number has skyrocketed to 1.6. As we can see, the graduation of Josh Banton and the all-star player Jan Pirretas (both defensemen) has disrupted the team’s defensive line. The departure of the beloved goalie Jackson Gardner is adding even more uncertainty. Gardner provided hope to the team in the toughest times, and his penalty saves were crucial for winning the title last year. Now, with the defense in disarray and the main goalkeeper gone, the Wolfpack is trying to rebuild chemistry and fortify the backline.
“Defensively, we are addressing our vulnerabilities, especially with the changes in our backline. It is about improving our communication, organization, and teamwork to prevent conceding unnecessary goals. You can expect a more resilient defense in these upcoming matches,” said assistant coach Jens Heck.
However, the list of troubles does not end with defense. The team is struggling offensively as well. The numbers speak for themselves: 0.7 goals per game compared to 1.16 last season. The decrease is primarily due to the scoreless start of the season. Over the previous three games, the Wolfpack has scored five goals and earned their first four points. Players are eager to prove that their success last year was not a fluke and that they are competitive this year as well.
Hoping For Change
Despite these early-season challenges, Marques Scott, Jens Heck, and the TRU Wolfpack remain determined to turn things around. The potential for success is undeniably present, and with their dedication and hard work, there is every reason to believe that they will overcome these obstacles and once again make their mark. Their next opponents are the University of Saskatchewan and the University of Fraser Valley. Both teams are at the bottom of their divisions, facing issues like those of Wolfpack. The team from Saskatchewan has only one victory and one draw in six games. UFV earned their hard-fought three points in six games when they played TRU in Langley on August 26. Now is the best time for the Kamloops team to learn from their mistakes and improve, adding six points to their name in the table.
We will continue to follow the TRU Wolfpack men’s soccer team’s journey throughout the season, providing updates on their progress and the exciting moments that lie ahead. The team will need you on September 23 at MacArthur Island Park field, on September 29 at Hillside Stadium, and during all other games during the season. Come and support local!
By Artem Zhurakovskii
