The men’s soccer team may not get covered on television or receive high-dollar marketing campaigns, but these Mustangs know how to win. If SMU sports fans are looking for an opportunity to show school spirit for a winning team, then the men’s soccer team is the answer.
Historically, the men’s soccer team does not just win every now and then: it consistently dominates. In spite of losing one of the best players in the country and their coach, this year has already proved no exception.
The team has vaulted in the rankings due to their undefeated standing. SMU was ranked No. 4 in the last NSCAA poll and should only improve after two convincing wins (3-0, 3-1) in the home-opening tournament this past weekend.
The fan support seems about the same so far this year in terms of sheer numbers. But, the new energy surrounding the program, crowd participation and noise far surpasses that of the previous two years.
There are many reasons for the increased excitement of old fans and many reason for the men’s soccer team to attract new fans this season.
The noise at Westcott Friday night was loud. Granted, it was the first game of the season, but the passion of the fans and excitement of the 18 freshmen on the created a different environment from past games. It made the game easy to enjoy for knowledgeable soccer fans and novices alike.
Also, there are compelling stories this season. Paulo da Silva’s return from his injury-plagued seasons of 2006 and 2007 to score five goals in six games is a story of perseverance. New head coach Tim McClements is in his first year as head coach at SMU and currently undefeated. There are also 18 freshmen, some who actually see significant playing time, that will develop over the course of the season.
The 2008 soccer season offers something exciting for anyone who claims to be a SMU sports fan.
Fan support can make the difference in a game. Anytime players feel supported by the home crowd, they play harder. Westcott Field does not hold an incredible amount of people. This means that individual fans can have more of an impact than when they go to largely attended sporting events.
While the 495 fans at Friday night’s game were electric, imagine what the environment would be like with 2,000 fans in the stands.
