Cazenovia Gears Up for NCAA Tournament

By Brandon Holt, Director of Sports Information

CAZENOVIA, N.Y. – While the Cazenovia College men’s soccer team is preparing to play in the program’s first-ever NCAA Tournament game on Saturday, Nov. 14, their opponent, York College (Pa.), is certainly no stranger to the post-season.

The nationally-ranked Spartans have compiled an overall record of 93-6-13 over the past five seasons and are entering their fifth consecutive NCAA Tournament. They are led by two-time first team All-American and University of Maryland transfer Jon Ports.

Cazenovia Head Coach Eric Bonnier is aware of the challenge that lies ahead for the Wildcats but, also understands what the team must do if they hope to have success against the Spartans on Saturday.

“We have to control their playmakers and limit them getting behind us,” said Bonnier. “We have to stay focused mentally and be willing to work hard for 90 minutes to have a good chance.”

The Wildcats have done a good job thus far in the season doing that, allowing an average of only 1.29 goals per contest to go along with nine shutouts. Winners of seven straight, which included a three-game run to win their conference championship, Cazenovia is peaking at the right time.

“The guys are feeling very confident and are working hard in the last few sessions readying to play against a very good York side,” said Bonnier. “We’re focusing on our defending and making sure everyone understands their roles.”

Cazenovia has already established precedent this season for the program, setting a record for wins, capturing their first conference championship and earning their first NCAA Tournament bid. On Saturday, the Wildcats will look to make another mark on their season by upsetting York for their first NCAA Tournament victory.

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Cazenovia Gears Up for NCAA Tournament

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