FAIRFIELD, Conn. – The Fairfield University men’s soccer team received votes in the latest National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) national poll. The Stags picked up 11 points in this week's ranking after starting the 2014 campaign with a 1-0 road win against Army.
“I appreciate the recognition that the NSCAA has given our team through the national and regional rankings,” Head Coach Carl Rees said. “Our team continues to strive for excellence and being listed among the nation’s best is a reward for the hard work our team puts forth each day.”
Fairfield was also ranked in the latest NCSAA regional ranking, taking third in the Northeast poll. The Stags are one of five Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) programs ranked in the Northeast top 10 poll, joining Monmouth (2nd), Marist (6th), Siena (8th), and Iona (9th) for that distinction.
Being mentioned in a national poll is nothing new for Rees and his program. The 19-year veteran has led the Stags to a top 25 ranking in seven different seasons, most recently a number 25 ranking in 2011. Rees also put Fairfield in the top 25 during the 1998 (24th), 2000 (15th), 2001 (12th), 2005 (24th), 2006 (15th), and 2007 (17th).
The Fairfield University men’s soccer team will continue play in 2014 this weekend when the Stags play at the Mayor’s Cup in Oneonta, N.Y. which is hosted by Hartwick College. The Stags will play the host school on Friday night before battling the University of New Hampshire on Sunday afternoon. The team plays its home opener on September 12 when Yale University comes to Lessing Field.