Nov. 10, 2006
FAIRFIELD, Conn. -- There are nearly 200 Division I schools that sponsor men's soccer across the United States. Most of the head coaches are sitting back and reflecting on the 2006 season, and getting some much needed rest. But anyone of those coaches would trade that rest and relaxation for the opportunity that is in front of Head Coach Carl Rees - the opportunity to play in the NCAA tournament.
Coach Rees and his lads will have high hopes when they take the field against the University of Connecticut on Saturday afternoon. With their 1-0 win over Saint Peter's College in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) tournament, the Stags earned the right to play the Huskies in their 1 pm match up in Storrs.
However, don't misinterpret the Stags jubilation as a sign that they are content just to be in the tournament. This squad wants to earn respect, and a first-round win would most defintely accomplish that goal.
Fairfield started earning that respect during the regular-season by being ranked in the national poll for five of the last six weeks. The team returned to the national ranking this week in the number 23 slot. Others also have shown Fairfield respect as well, as ESPN.com listed Fairfield as one of the tournament's potential upset teams in the first round.
Coach Rees knows that rankings and recognition are great, but don't won't give him or his team any advantage on the field. And, he has witnessed the long, storied history of the University of Connecticut and coach Ray Reid.
"I know the history of the program and Ray Reid is a great coach, so I am sure they will be ready to play on Saturday," Rees said. "I look forward to the challenge of playing UConn, which has established itself as one of the top programs over the years."
The Stags will look to their senior leadership during this game, especially midfielder Alex Cunliffe and defender Mike Troy. Cunliffe earned the MAAC tournament most valuable player award, while Troy was a member of the All-Tournament team. Their consistent play throughout the campaign has been a key element in Fairfield's success.
With the help of his seniors, Coach Rees hopes that his season will continue with a strong effort in Storrs. He hasn't made any plans that include rest and relaxation quite yet.
