2024: A Defining Season for STU Tommies Men’s Soccer

Fredericton, NB – The St. Thomas University (STU) Tommies Men's Soccer Team is gearing up for an electrifying 2024 season, marked by their role as hosts of the 2024 CCAA Men's Soccer National Championship. With a renewed focus and a strong roster, the Tommies are ready to tackle the challenges ahead and aim for glory on home soil.

Reflecting on last season, the Tommies are not dwelling on past results. "We are not dwelling on last season, but fully focused on meeting all challenges and challengers this fall," said Head Coach John Ryan Morrison. This mindset has shaped the team's approach to the upcoming season, ensuring that every match is an opportunity to improve and excel.

"We've got a new team this year, and on paper, it’s the best we've ever had. The expectations are high, and we’re all eager to get out there and play," said Elias Stiphout

The 2024 roster features a blend of true rookies, experienced players and seasoned transfers, all of whom have made a strong impression in the preseason. "We have a great mixture of true rookies and transfers making up this year's recruiting class. They have all shown well in preseason so far as we are looking to build on an already solid core of returning players," commented Coach JR Morrison. The team's close-knit dynamic has embraced the new players, fostering increased competition for spots and further strengthening the squad.

Continuity in the coaching staff is another advantage for the Tommies this season. "We are happy to be bringing back the same group of coaches for the third season in a row. It is a group that I trust, and the continuity ensures standards are upheld on the field, as well as off," added JR Morrison.

The Tommies have put in the work during the offseason, with the most robust winter training program in the history of the team. High-level training sessions and weekly games against strong competition kept the team sharp and ready for the challenges of the 2024 season.

The Tommies are setting ambitious goals for 2024. The squad's goals are to improve the record from last season, win the ACAA banner, and secure a CCAA national medal on home soil. With a deep and experienced roster, the Tommies are well-positioned to make a strong run in the league and on the national stage.

"These last two years have been disappointing, but this season feels different—we have a very good team, probably the best we've had since I’ve been here. It’s the biggest year in our program’s history, and everyone is excited to host Nationals and show what we’re capable of," Jason Scott stated.

Sixteen players from last year's squad are returning, including six of the seven ACAA All-Stars. The Tommies are also adding important transfers including former league MVP and CCAA 1st Team All-Star Brett Springer, and Dan Keripe, who has impressed during the preseason. Leading the team once again are captains Oakes and Chidubem, supported by a strong leadership group committed to maintaining the high standards of the program both on and off the field.

Despite not being the defending champions, the Tommies know they are a team that others are eager to beat. "Even though we are not defending champions, we go into every game as the team everyone wants to beat, so we often see teams play their best soccer of the season against us each weekend," noted Coach JR Morrison. However, with a deep squad and a competitive training environment, the Tommies are prepared to face any challenge.

"Our experience and ability to win in different ways have led to our success over the last four seasons. I feel our edge comes from having an ultra-talented group of players who have really bought into the methods and standards the coaching staff has established," said Coach JR Morrison.

As the Tommies prepare for a landmark season, the support of the Tommies community and fans will be crucial. "Continue to show up to our games to see some of the best soccer our province has to offer. With the national championship on the horizon, the energy and enthusiasm of the fans will play a pivotal role in driving the team toward success," said JR Morrison.

Go Tommies!

This season preview sets the stage for an exciting 2024 campaign for the STU Tommies Men's Soccer Team as they aim to make history on their home turf.