Nationally Ranked Raptors Set to Kick Off Season

In 2021, the Men's soccer program won its first Region XX title in five years. This season, the Raptors return with even higher expectations. Having been ranked number 16 in the country in preseason polls, the Raptors know more attention is coming their way. Starting Friday, they get to show if they're prepared for it. 

The team returns most of its players from the 2021 season, including All-American attacker Andres Javitt and Region XX All-Tournament midfielder Diego Ramirez. The attack and midfield remain strong, with most of last year's options available. However, the backline will need to be rebuilt as starters Keino Thompson, Abou Toure, and Junior Escobar have graduated from the program. 

The program has also recruited a strong international contingent, with players coming from Brazil, England, Japan, and Canada as true freshmen. Combined with a couple of transfer students and local signing, the incoming class of players, will look to compete for starting spots and make their mark on the team.   

The Raptors will begin conference play this Friday, August 26, traveling to Allegany College of Maryland before facing off against Frederick Community College the following Tuesday. Over the Labor Day weekend, Montgomery College will host the Tom Bichey tournament, bringing together some of the top teams from the East Coast, including District rivals Harcum and Monroe College.  

Pedro Braz, entering his sixth season as Raptors Head Coach, is excited to get the team on the field and see where they stand. "A new season is always exciting, and after spending all of August going against each other, the players are ready to get into a meaningful match. As always, getting the new players integrated and up to speed is a process, but we're in a better position this year than we were at the same time last season." 

The Raptors will play Allegany this Friday, August 26 at 5:00 PM in Cumberland, Maryland. Their first home game is Friday, September 2, versus Harcum CC. All home games can be seen live on www.mcraptors.com, and home games are free for MC students.