MCC Soccer Preview

Sean Covich
Sports Information Director
August 3

Men’s team:

The MCC men’s soccer team will be led by a strong nucleus of returning players. Sophomore goalkeeper Ryan Joiner, a former standout at Ocean Springs High School, accumulated 41 saves on goal during the 2005 campaign.

Also leading the sophomore class is Jason Miller of George County High School. Jason led the team in scoring in 2005 with 21 goals and is back for more in 2006.

“I just want to do all I can to help this Eagles’ team be as successful as possible in 2006. A championship would be nice, but, as Coach George has taught us, take it one play at a time,” Miller said.

Defensively, the Eagles will be led by sophomore Tyler Johnson of Pascagoula High School and sophomore Zack Chisolm of West Lauderdale. Offensive opponents will likely face a bigger and faster defensive back-four this upcoming season.

Look for big things out of the Eagle’s offense as they stack together what may be one of the most explosive offense arsenals. Leading that group will be freshmen Alaghie Ceesay of Africa.

“It is fun to watch a kid this good,” George said. “What he can do with a ball is truly fascinating and worth coming to see.”

Supporting Ceesay will be Starkville Academy standout Terry Silva.

“I can’t wait for the opportunity to play at Meridian,” Silva said. “After visiting the campus and gaining insight into the program, I knew this was where I wanted to continue my career.”


Women’s team:

Coach Alex Gorge described this year’s women’s team as the most talented squad he’s had at MCC.

Defensively, the Eagles will have a fast and aggressive back-four. Returning to anchor the lady Eagles defense is sophomore Jenna Lepard of Pontotoc. Lepard will likely be one of the central defenders but will also be involved in the attack as well.

Supporting the defense is returning sophomores Alyse Hobgood of Northeast Lauderdale High School, Jasmine Caldiero of Columbus High School and George County standout Sadie Fryfogle, who will be the returning goal keeper for the Lady Eagles.

Leading the offensive attack will be sophomore center midfielder Ivy Rawson.

“As far as freshmen, this is without a doubt the best recruiting class in school history. Athleticism, skill, and speed are all correct descriptions of this 2006 freshmen class. It will be exciting to see it all come together,” George said.


Meet The Eagles Day Scheduled:

The Meridian community and MCC Eagle fans will have an opportunity to meet the 2006 MCC men’s and women’s soccer teams Saturday, August 19th at the MCC soccer field.

Lunch will be severed at the field starting at 11:00 a.m. with the Eagles being introduced at 11:30 a.m.

For a ticket of just $40, Eagle fans will get an assortment of MCC gear; including a cap, visor, t-shirt, pocket schedules, poster schedules, and a free pass to home soccer games.

Purchasing your ticket will also give you a chance to win prizes from Judge Little Sporting Goods, Wal-Mart, MCC Bookstore, and the grad prize drawing for $1,000.

The festivities will conclude with an inter-squad match, women play at 12:30 pm and the men play at 1:00 p.m.

For more information, please contact soccer coach, Alex George (601) 484-8697.