Winter Sports Preview: Men's Soccer

After a season of heartbreaking losses filled with 10-0 blowouts, it feels like this is the year for Casady Men's Soccer. With the returning presence of four seniors, countless juniors, and experienced sophomores, the Cyclones have a veteran lineup anchored by Rob Nayfa in goal. Coach Chris Halpern will be out for blood this year, as it promises to be an exciting season.Predicted Lineup:Formation: 4-2-3-1ST: Garrett Weeks (So.)LAM: Jack Story (So.)CAM: Emile Karam (Sr.)RAM: Angus Oglivie (Jr.)CDM: Aldon O'Connor (Jr.)CDM: Colton Nelson (So.)LB: Sanjay Ramdas (So.)CB: Paxton Brown (Sr.)CB: Ethan Nelson (So.)RB: Blake Gerard (Jr.)GK: Rob Nayfa (Sr.)Players to Watch: Rob Nayfa: Coming off an injury-filled 2014 season, Nayfa looks to rebound. In four scrimmages so far, the Student Council President has allowed only 3 goals and had one clean sheet against St. Marks. He'll look to have a big year while attempting to lead the Cyclones to the SPC Championship.Emile Karam: The man with no weak foot will play center midfielder in Coach Chris Halpern's 4-2-3-1 formation, so he'll have plenty of opportunities to knock in some goals. Expect no less than 10 goals on the season for this Lebanon-product.Paxton Brown: He's a defensive machine who refuses to concede goals. With great timing on aerial balls and a knack for not letting people past him, this center back will anchor a stout defense.Points of Emphasis:The Cyclones' deep bench figures to play heavily into their SPC championship run. Comprised mainly of Cyrus Steppe (Jr.), Ryan McNeill (So.), JM VanSant (Sr.), Anthony Davoli (So.) and Cameron Lindley (So.), this unit will allow the starters to catch their breath while maintaining a high level of play. If these guys can give Casady anywhere from 20-40 minutes a game, the team will outrun any opposition.