ALFRED, NY - The Alfred University men's soccer team returns to action this fall and the team is bolstered by their 19 returning veterans as well as plenty of new talent including 11 first-years, and three transfers.

The team is led by Head Coach Tracy Blake, who enters his seventh season with Alfred. Assistant Coaches Rey Martinez and Andrew Barnikel, also, both return for their second season directing the Saxons on the pitch.

"We have recruited a strong class this year from several states." Blake said. "As they integrate into the squad, several could have a breakout year."

On the field, the Saxons will be led by their two team captains, Chase Freeland (Hornell, NY/Hornell) and AJ Giaquinto (Burnt Hills, NY/Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake). Freeland led the team in goals and points last season recording seven goals and 16 points. Freeland was also named to the All-Empire 8 third team and will look to put even more goals in the back of the net this season. On the other end of the field, Giaquinto, will continue to serve as an anchor for the Saxon's backline at Center Back. Giaquinto was named the team's Sportsman of the Year this past season, and will be a great role model for the youthful roster. 

"Our mantra is "We before Me". The whole team lives, breathes, sleeps and dreams it." Blake said. "Both Chase and AJ communicate really well and lead with true commitment, as do many other players on the team. Captain is a badge, and we would like to have 11 captains on the field."

In the midfield, Junior William Moore (Stormville, NY/John Jay) and transfer Rodrigo Perez (Pelencia, Spain/IES Victorio Macho) will look to control the center of the park for Alfred University. Between the sticks, the Saxons have four great goalkeepers who will all be competing for the starting position throughout the season.

"Our primary goal is to make the Empire 8 playoffs and take it one step at a time from there as anything can happen." Blake said. "Aside from winning an Empire 8 Championship, we have a goal set of an academic GPA of 3.0 or above average as a team. We also strive to have zero disciplinary cards for dissent."

Alfred University will open the regular season on the road against Penn State Behrend before hosting their annual Bryan Karl Tournament on September 9-10. Empire 8 competition for the Saxons will begin a week later on September 16th when the team travels to face Hartwick College. The Saxons will look to once again punch their ticket to the Empire 8 postseason tournament after making it four out of the past five years.