Raised Expectations make Challenge Harder for Tommies in 2022-'23

After an undefeated 2021-22 season, with a 10-0-2 record, the St. Thomas University Men’s soccer team will head into the new year with raised expectations.  

“Last year was not easy by any means,” said head coach John-Ryan Morrison. “It’s going to be a harder challenge to stay on top than it was to get there.”  

Heading into his eighth season at the helm of the Men’s soccer program, Morrison said he’s had more difficulty assessing his team during the preseason than any other season. The Tommies have been plagued with injuries during their training camp and exhibition games, currently having nine players out due to injury. But if the Tommies can heal and remain healthy, Morrison remains confident in his squad. 

“I haven't been able to field what would likely be our most competitive lineup to date,” he said. “On paper we've got a really good team but only time will tell if we can get the bodies healthy enough to help the team.” 

With the raised expectations and playing the host role for the 2022-23 Atlantic Collegiate Athletics Association Championships, the Tommies are trying to not get ahead of themselves – Morrison knows how competitive the league is. Qualifying is their first goal.  

“If we qualify, I expect our home fans will give us that extra boost we need to win it all,” he said. 

With 14 new players in training camp, Morrison said his veterans, such as Brett Springer and Ryan MacKinnon will be heavily relied on and off the field. Springer led the ACAA in goals last season, scoring 15 in 12 games, while Mackinnon enters his fifth season with the Tommies, the longest of any current player. Morrison hopes they can help their new teammates adjust to the new surroundings and system, as well as their high off-field standards. He also believes there are awaiting breakout stars. 

“Sam Choiniere and Matty Oprea have been the standout rookies so far and have played big minutes all preseason so I am looking forward to seeing how they progress,” Morrison said. “Josh Kuehl has come back heathy and improved with a desire to play more, so we will see how he takes his opportunities. Gray Cyr has also really impressed so far this preseason and we expect to rely on him to be our engine on the field.” 

The Tommies kick off their quest for back-to-back ACAA titles Sept. 10 in Turo against the Dalhousie AC Rams. Their home opener is Sept. 10 against the Crandall University Chargers. Kick off is scheduled for 3: 15 at the Grant Harvey Turf Field.