AC Athletics Press Release...
ATLANTA, Ga. – Two members of the Austin College men’s soccer team have been named All-Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference performers for the 2009 season, the league office has announced.
Senior Alex Dawson and sophomore Luis Castillo were each named 2nd Team All-SCAC in a vote by the conference coaches. Dawson, a senior midfielder from Spring, scored four goals including two game winners and had a team-best eight assists and 16 total points during the year. Castillo, a sophomore from Kingwood and last year’s SCAC Newcomer of the Year, scored five goals and added five assists for a total of 15 points, second best on the team behind Dawson.
Austin College athletic teams participate as a member of the NCAA Division III and the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference.
About Austin College
Austin College is a leading national independent liberal arts college located north of Dallas in Sherman, Texas. Founded in 1849, making it the oldest institution of higher education in Texas operating under original charter and name, the college is related by covenant to the Presbyterian Church (USA). Recognized nationally for academic excellence in the areas of international education, pre-professional training, and leadership studies, Austin College is one of 40 schools profiled in Loren Pope’s influential book Colleges That Change Lives.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Castillo, Dawson Named All-SCAC
Sophomore midfielder Luis Castillo (Kingwood, TX) and senior midfielder Alex Dawson (Spring, TX) have both been named second team ALL-SCAC. Press release to follow...
Friday, November 13, 2009
Castillo Name Offensive POTW
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Press release from the SCAC Office...
LUIS CASTILLO OF AUSTIN COLLEGE, a sophomore forward from Kingwood, Texas has been selected as the SCAC Men's Soccer Co-Offensive Player-of-the-Week for matches played from Monday, November 2 through Sunday, November 8.
Castillo closed out the 2009 season by scoring three goals in the ‘Roos wins over Birmingham-Southern and Millsaps. In the ‘Roos 2-1 win over BSC Castillo notched both goals and also added an insurance goal in a 4-0 win over Millsaps on Friday.
On the year Castillo scored five goals and added five assists for a total of 15 points.
AC 2 - Birmingham Southern 1
On Saturday, after our Friday night game against Millsaps, we travelled to Birmingham for our Sunday game against BSC. We got a light stretch in the parking lot of the hotel and then took the boys down to a place call The Summitt where they could walk around and choose from various places to eat. Game time was set for 11:00am on Sunday.
After our pregame meal on Sunday, we headed to BSC's campus. They have a nice complex and the field was in pretty good condition. The weather was beautiful...everything was set for a great game. I knew the boys were focused and ready to play. BSC has had a great year and were undefeated at home all fall.
The game started in a hurry as both teams tried to establish the flow and possession. BSC is a well coached team and very talented. They had the momentum early, but AC would gain our share of the possession and do very well with it. We created some solid chances with a goal coming off of Luis Castillo (Kingwood, TX) in the 29th minute. Luis would take a ball that was bouncing at the top of the box and hit a fantastic full volley near post to put the score at 1-0. Luis has not had the fall the he personally expected, but has come on well in the final half of the season.
BSC would counter with a goal less than 10 minutes later to take the score to 1-1. It would remain that way into the break.
Both teams fought to control possession in the second half and it was a fairly evenly played game. AC's fitness was a key factor however, as our depth and overall fitness would wear them down. Castillo would take a break during the second half and reenter with about 6 to play. It didn't take him long to make an impact as senior Alex Dawson (Spring, TX) hit a free kick into the box that Luis would head home for this second goal of the game. It would be Al's team leading 8th assist as well. The goal came with 3 minutes to play and AC would hang on for a solid win.
The boys finished the season in an unbelievable manner, going 7-1-1 in our last 9 games, with great wins in and out of conference. The season would end with a 8-9-1 record. More to come on the season in review...
Thanks to all that traveled to our games over the weekend. GO ROOS!!
After our pregame meal on Sunday, we headed to BSC's campus. They have a nice complex and the field was in pretty good condition. The weather was beautiful...everything was set for a great game. I knew the boys were focused and ready to play. BSC has had a great year and were undefeated at home all fall.
The game started in a hurry as both teams tried to establish the flow and possession. BSC is a well coached team and very talented. They had the momentum early, but AC would gain our share of the possession and do very well with it. We created some solid chances with a goal coming off of Luis Castillo (Kingwood, TX) in the 29th minute. Luis would take a ball that was bouncing at the top of the box and hit a fantastic full volley near post to put the score at 1-0. Luis has not had the fall the he personally expected, but has come on well in the final half of the season.
BSC would counter with a goal less than 10 minutes later to take the score to 1-1. It would remain that way into the break.
Both teams fought to control possession in the second half and it was a fairly evenly played game. AC's fitness was a key factor however, as our depth and overall fitness would wear them down. Castillo would take a break during the second half and reenter with about 6 to play. It didn't take him long to make an impact as senior Alex Dawson (Spring, TX) hit a free kick into the box that Luis would head home for this second goal of the game. It would be Al's team leading 8th assist as well. The goal came with 3 minutes to play and AC would hang on for a solid win.
The boys finished the season in an unbelievable manner, going 7-1-1 in our last 9 games, with great wins in and out of conference. The season would end with a 8-9-1 record. More to come on the season in review...
Thanks to all that traveled to our games over the weekend. GO ROOS!!
AC 4 - Millsaps 0
Ok, to start, I apologize for the delay in getting this posted! Should have been done much sooner, but it's been a crazy week wrapping everything up.
We left for Jackson, MS on Thursday afternoon arriving late evening. The game wasn't scheduled until 6:00pm on Friday, so it allowed us to sleep in a bit. After breakfast we headed over to the field for a light stretch and kick around. We discussed what was ahead of us that weekend. The game that night was crucial in putting us in a decent position to finish conference. The loss to Rhodes hurt us, so we had to have the 3 points. Finishing the season on a positive note would be important heading into the offseason.
The game was what we expected with Millsaps playing a very disciplined defensive system. We had talked about needing to be patient in our attack, and find the penetrating pass. We did that and in the 22nd minute Alex Dawson(Spring, TX) found first year forward Chris Melton(Sherman, TX) for his team leading 6th goal of the season. The score would stay at 1-0 heading into halftime.
One thing that this team has had a difficult time doing is starting second halves appropriately. The break just does not suit us...and Friday would be no different. Millsaps came out in a hurry and really put us under. They had a great opportunity to equalize off a header the hit crossbar. We persevered however, and Chris Melton would return the favor to Dawson and assist Alex on a great goal that beat the keeper in the upper left corner. 2-0.
Millsaps would be awarded a PK minutes later, but would miss wide right. It was at this point that I knew the game was in our favor. The officiating was questionable both ways, but after the miss, I felt we could gain control. And we did. Guillermo Allande(El Paso, TX) would recieve a double assist from Johnny Lara(El Paso, TX) and Jason Campbell(Kingston, Jamaica) and beat the keeper for his first career goal. Luis Castillo(Kingwood, TX) would then get a double assist from Allande and Campbell for the final tally of the game. 4-0. A solid win and a great result to get us to 12 points in conference. The boys have really put it together the last half of the season and now all we had to do is finish with Birmingham Southern on Sunday.
We left for Jackson, MS on Thursday afternoon arriving late evening. The game wasn't scheduled until 6:00pm on Friday, so it allowed us to sleep in a bit. After breakfast we headed over to the field for a light stretch and kick around. We discussed what was ahead of us that weekend. The game that night was crucial in putting us in a decent position to finish conference. The loss to Rhodes hurt us, so we had to have the 3 points. Finishing the season on a positive note would be important heading into the offseason.
The game was what we expected with Millsaps playing a very disciplined defensive system. We had talked about needing to be patient in our attack, and find the penetrating pass. We did that and in the 22nd minute Alex Dawson(Spring, TX) found first year forward Chris Melton(Sherman, TX) for his team leading 6th goal of the season. The score would stay at 1-0 heading into halftime.
One thing that this team has had a difficult time doing is starting second halves appropriately. The break just does not suit us...and Friday would be no different. Millsaps came out in a hurry and really put us under. They had a great opportunity to equalize off a header the hit crossbar. We persevered however, and Chris Melton would return the favor to Dawson and assist Alex on a great goal that beat the keeper in the upper left corner. 2-0.
Millsaps would be awarded a PK minutes later, but would miss wide right. It was at this point that I knew the game was in our favor. The officiating was questionable both ways, but after the miss, I felt we could gain control. And we did. Guillermo Allande(El Paso, TX) would recieve a double assist from Johnny Lara(El Paso, TX) and Jason Campbell(Kingston, Jamaica) and beat the keeper for his first career goal. Luis Castillo(Kingwood, TX) would then get a double assist from Allande and Campbell for the final tally of the game. 4-0. A solid win and a great result to get us to 12 points in conference. The boys have really put it together the last half of the season and now all we had to do is finish with Birmingham Southern on Sunday.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
AC 2 - Rhodes 3
After our win on Friday we slept in and then travelled to Memphis. Saturday night we took the guys out to Beale St. for dinner and to walk around the downtown area. On Sunday morning we took our normal walk and got focused for the game against Rhodes.
Like the game against Hendrix, AC started out the first half very well. Just four minutes into the game, Luis Castillo (Kingwood, TX) would cross the ball to Sam Temple (Paris, TX) who chested the ball into the net to give AC the early lead. Rhodes would respond though shortly after off a cross to the back post to level the score. Despite the let down defensively, the guys still continued to push and were rewarded when Luis Castillo (Kingwood, TX) scored a headed ball off a service from Alex Dawson (Spring, TX). However, another defensive lapse allowed Rhodes to even the score again just before halftime. We would end the half tied 2-2.
At halftime we were very pleased with our play offensively, but were disappointed that we didn't do a better job defensively and knew that we allowed them to get back into the game.
From the very first whistle of the second half, Rhodes dominated the game. We came out on our heels early and never seemed to recover. Halfway through the second half, Rhodes would take the lead. The guys pushed to try and get the tying goal, but came up short in the end. We would go on to lose the game 3-2.
After the game the team was disappointed that we had lost. We felt like the game was our and we let it slip away. Despite the loss, the guys have been playing some great soccer over the past few weeks. It was our first loss in our last seven games. Now we start preparing for the last weekend of the year. We will travel to Millsaps and Birmingham Southern to play two quality teams. Thanks to the fans that made it to support the guys. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
Like the game against Hendrix, AC started out the first half very well. Just four minutes into the game, Luis Castillo (Kingwood, TX) would cross the ball to Sam Temple (Paris, TX) who chested the ball into the net to give AC the early lead. Rhodes would respond though shortly after off a cross to the back post to level the score. Despite the let down defensively, the guys still continued to push and were rewarded when Luis Castillo (Kingwood, TX) scored a headed ball off a service from Alex Dawson (Spring, TX). However, another defensive lapse allowed Rhodes to even the score again just before halftime. We would end the half tied 2-2.
At halftime we were very pleased with our play offensively, but were disappointed that we didn't do a better job defensively and knew that we allowed them to get back into the game.
From the very first whistle of the second half, Rhodes dominated the game. We came out on our heels early and never seemed to recover. Halfway through the second half, Rhodes would take the lead. The guys pushed to try and get the tying goal, but came up short in the end. We would go on to lose the game 3-2.
After the game the team was disappointed that we had lost. We felt like the game was our and we let it slip away. Despite the loss, the guys have been playing some great soccer over the past few weeks. It was our first loss in our last seven games. Now we start preparing for the last weekend of the year. We will travel to Millsaps and Birmingham Southern to play two quality teams. Thanks to the fans that made it to support the guys. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
AC 1 - Hendrix 0
Coming into the weekend we were really pleased with how the guys have been playing recently. We had a great win against UC Santa Cruz and were looking to validate what we did as we travelled to Hendrix.
AC started out the first half very well. We dominated possesion and were looking very dangerous. Hendrix did a good job of limiting our chances on goal. After our initial push the game settled down and both teams got into their rhythm. Since we were playing on a turf field, the ball played very fast, so we tried to play to feet as much as possible. Despite our good play in the first half, we weren't able to put any points on the board. Our defensive did a good job of not allowing Hendrix to score either. We would go into the half tied 0-0.
It seemed that the halftime break hurt us more than it helped us. We started off the second half slow, and Hendrix created some good opportunities. The game settled down though and we started to gain our composure. We had several good opportunities to take the lead, but weren't able to finish them. For the last 10 minutes the game's pace increased. Hendrix pushed to win the game and we did the same. With 15 seconds to play we collected the ball on our half of the field and found Alex Dawson (Spring, TX) in the middle of the field. Alex played a through ball to Chris Melton (Sherman, TX) who was taken down in the box with just 2.9 seconds to play. The referee awarded us the penalty kick, and Alex stepped up and buried it to give AC the 1-0 victory.
Even though we didn't play our best soccer in the second half, the guys still had a good game. We fought hard and felt like we deserved the win. Thanks to the fans who made the trip to Hendrix. It was great having people there to cheer the team on. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
AC started out the first half very well. We dominated possesion and were looking very dangerous. Hendrix did a good job of limiting our chances on goal. After our initial push the game settled down and both teams got into their rhythm. Since we were playing on a turf field, the ball played very fast, so we tried to play to feet as much as possible. Despite our good play in the first half, we weren't able to put any points on the board. Our defensive did a good job of not allowing Hendrix to score either. We would go into the half tied 0-0.
It seemed that the halftime break hurt us more than it helped us. We started off the second half slow, and Hendrix created some good opportunities. The game settled down though and we started to gain our composure. We had several good opportunities to take the lead, but weren't able to finish them. For the last 10 minutes the game's pace increased. Hendrix pushed to win the game and we did the same. With 15 seconds to play we collected the ball on our half of the field and found Alex Dawson (Spring, TX) in the middle of the field. Alex played a through ball to Chris Melton (Sherman, TX) who was taken down in the box with just 2.9 seconds to play. The referee awarded us the penalty kick, and Alex stepped up and buried it to give AC the 1-0 victory.
Even though we didn't play our best soccer in the second half, the guys still had a good game. We fought hard and felt like we deserved the win. Thanks to the fans who made the trip to Hendrix. It was great having people there to cheer the team on. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Rhodes Game Location Change
Our game against Rhodes College has been moved due to poor playing conditions of their home field. The game will now be played at the Mike Rose Soccer Complex in the Stadium Field. Info on directions and links to live stats and video can be found on the Rhodes Men's Soccer Home Page. That link can be cut and pasted below.
http://www.rhodeslynx.com/index.aspx?tab=soccer&path=msoc
Thursday, October 29, 2009
See Game Live
See our game against Hendrix College live online. Game time is set for 6:00pm CST. You can see live video and stats here...
Cut and paste to your browser:
http://www.hendrix.edu/athletics/content.aspx?id=37746
Cut and paste to your browser:
http://www.hendrix.edu/athletics/content.aspx?id=37746
Melton Named SCAC POTW
Melton Named SCAC Offensive Player of the Week
SHERMAN, Texas – Austin College men’s soccer player Chris Melton has been named the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference Offensive Player of the Week for games played from Monday, October 19 through Sunday, October 25, the conference office has announced.
Melton, a sophomore from Sherman, scored three goals during the week to lead the ’Roos to a 2-0-1 mark with wins over Concordia and the University of California-Santa Cruz as well as a tie against the University of Dallas. Melton scored both of Austin College’s goals in the 2-1 upset win over No. 6-ranked UC-Santa Cruz to close out the weekend, and for the year the second year forward leads the ’Roos with six goals scored.
Monday, October 26, 2009
AC 2 - UC Santa Cruz 1 (Senior Day)
UC Santa Cruz came into the game ranked #6 in the nation. They are a quality side with good talent everywhere on the field. Our guys were looking forward to the challenge.
Both teams came out sharp early. Just a minute and a half into the game, UC Santa Cruz took the lead off a negative ball through the box. AC, however, came back strong and got an equalizer only 30 seconds later. The ball was played down the line to Jason "Jamaica" Campbell (Kingston, Jamaica) who crossed the ball towards the middle of the field. Luis Castillo (Kingwood, TX) fired a shot that the UC Santa Cruz keeper couldn't handle and Chris Melton (Sherman, TX) was there to slam home the rebound. After the goal both teams were going back and forth at each other with each looking very dangerous and creating good opportunities. With 18 minutes to play in the first half, AC would strike again. Luis Castillo (Kingwood, TX) took the ball through the midfield and slotted a through ball to Chris Melton (Sherman, TX) who calmly beat the keeper for his second goal of the game. Both team would create chances near the end of the half, but neither were able to finish them. The score would remain 2-1 going into halftime.
During halftime we talked about staying organized defensively all over the field. We knew that UC Santa Cruz would create some chances, we just had to be up to the challenge. We also talked about attacking them offensively to keep them on their heels.
The second half started the same as the first. Both teams went back and forth creating good opportunities to score. Our whole team did an excellent job of working up and down the field. The guys pressed forward when we were on the attack and did their jobs defensively when UC Santa Cruz had the ball. The second half would continue to be a back and forth struggle. With about 10 minutes to play UC Santa Cruz would press hard to get the equalizing goal. However, AC's defense would deny every chance that they created to give us the 2-1 victory on senior day.
This was an incredible game to be a part of. Our guys played fantastic for 90 minutes. It was a great way to send off our seniors on their last game on the home field. Thanks to all the fans who came out to support the game. You created an awesome atmosphere for the guys to play in. Now the team looks to continue our hot streak as we get back into conference play this weekend. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
Both teams came out sharp early. Just a minute and a half into the game, UC Santa Cruz took the lead off a negative ball through the box. AC, however, came back strong and got an equalizer only 30 seconds later. The ball was played down the line to Jason "Jamaica" Campbell (Kingston, Jamaica) who crossed the ball towards the middle of the field. Luis Castillo (Kingwood, TX) fired a shot that the UC Santa Cruz keeper couldn't handle and Chris Melton (Sherman, TX) was there to slam home the rebound. After the goal both teams were going back and forth at each other with each looking very dangerous and creating good opportunities. With 18 minutes to play in the first half, AC would strike again. Luis Castillo (Kingwood, TX) took the ball through the midfield and slotted a through ball to Chris Melton (Sherman, TX) who calmly beat the keeper for his second goal of the game. Both team would create chances near the end of the half, but neither were able to finish them. The score would remain 2-1 going into halftime.
During halftime we talked about staying organized defensively all over the field. We knew that UC Santa Cruz would create some chances, we just had to be up to the challenge. We also talked about attacking them offensively to keep them on their heels.
The second half started the same as the first. Both teams went back and forth creating good opportunities to score. Our whole team did an excellent job of working up and down the field. The guys pressed forward when we were on the attack and did their jobs defensively when UC Santa Cruz had the ball. The second half would continue to be a back and forth struggle. With about 10 minutes to play UC Santa Cruz would press hard to get the equalizing goal. However, AC's defense would deny every chance that they created to give us the 2-1 victory on senior day.
This was an incredible game to be a part of. Our guys played fantastic for 90 minutes. It was a great way to send off our seniors on their last game on the home field. Thanks to all the fans who came out to support the game. You created an awesome atmosphere for the guys to play in. Now the team looks to continue our hot streak as we get back into conference play this weekend. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
Sunday, October 25, 2009
AC 0 - University of Dallas 0 (Overtime)
Like our field, UD's field has been put through a lot over the past few weeks in regards to the amount of rainfall its had to withstand. The guys knew this going into the game and tried to make the best of it.
We started off the half slowly. The guys couldn't get into a rhythm and UD came out and pressed hard. However, our defense was up to the challenge. As the half continued we got down to our game and did a better job of possessing the ball. The first half didn't yeild many chances for either side as both teams spent most of the half getting adjusted to the playing surface. The score would stay 0-0 through halftime.
At halftime we talked about how we wanted to do a better job of pushing the issue offensely and take their players on 1v1. We knew that we could create some good opportunites if we did this.
The second half was more of a back and forth battle. Both teams looked dangerous and had some good oportunities to take the lead. Grant Gosselin (Phoenix, AZ) came up big for us all game. Roughly halfway through the second half Grant made a great save to keep the scores level. Like the first half, neither team was able to take advantage of the oportunities. The score stayed 0-0.
The first overtime didn't produce many chances for either team. However, the second overtime would. With less the five minutes to play, both teams went back and forth at each other desperately trying to get the winning goal. AC had several corners late in the game, but couldn't put the ball in the back of the net. With under 15 seconds to play, UD would start a counter that ultimately resulted in a 1v1 with Grant with less than five seconds to play. Grant charged out and denied the UD player to keep the final score level at 0-0.
The team was disappointed that we didn't extend our winnning streak, but were glad that they were able to keep the shutout. The guys knew they had a big game coming up on Saturday, and wanted to keep our unbeaten streak going. Thanks to all the fans that came to the game to support the team. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
We started off the half slowly. The guys couldn't get into a rhythm and UD came out and pressed hard. However, our defense was up to the challenge. As the half continued we got down to our game and did a better job of possessing the ball. The first half didn't yeild many chances for either side as both teams spent most of the half getting adjusted to the playing surface. The score would stay 0-0 through halftime.
At halftime we talked about how we wanted to do a better job of pushing the issue offensely and take their players on 1v1. We knew that we could create some good opportunites if we did this.
The second half was more of a back and forth battle. Both teams looked dangerous and had some good oportunities to take the lead. Grant Gosselin (Phoenix, AZ) came up big for us all game. Roughly halfway through the second half Grant made a great save to keep the scores level. Like the first half, neither team was able to take advantage of the oportunities. The score stayed 0-0.
The first overtime didn't produce many chances for either team. However, the second overtime would. With less the five minutes to play, both teams went back and forth at each other desperately trying to get the winning goal. AC had several corners late in the game, but couldn't put the ball in the back of the net. With under 15 seconds to play, UD would start a counter that ultimately resulted in a 1v1 with Grant with less than five seconds to play. Grant charged out and denied the UD player to keep the final score level at 0-0.
The team was disappointed that we didn't extend our winnning streak, but were glad that they were able to keep the shutout. The guys knew they had a big game coming up on Saturday, and wanted to keep our unbeaten streak going. Thanks to all the fans that came to the game to support the team. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
AC 4 - Concordia 1
The guys followed up their weekend victories with another strong performance on Tuesday. The team is really upbeat right now, and we hope to keep riding this momentum from one game to the next.
We started the first half extremely well. Only three minutes into the game, Sam Temple (Paris, TX) took a through ball, touched the ball around the charging keeper, and placed it into the back of the net to give AC the early advantage. Less than 10 minutes later, Chris Melton (Sherman, TX) beat the keeper on another 1 v 1 to increase our lead to 2. Despite the 2 goal lead, the guys continued to push the tempo to increase the lead further. They would be reward for the efforts later in the first half. Freshman Guillermo Allande's (El Paso, TX) shot was blocked by the Concordia keeper, but Jason "Jamaica" Campbell (Kingston, Jamaica) was on the spot to put the rebound away to give AC a three goal advantage. The score would stay that way through halftime.
During halftime we talked about keeping our intensity up and putting the game away. We wanted to put Concordia under pressure early in the second half, and keep the pressure on them the rest of the game.
The team did a good job of keeping the pressure on Concordia early in the half. We created several great opportunities to increase the lead even more, but couldn't manage to put our shots away. After the first 10 minutes of the half, we let our intensity level drop, and Concordia took advantage. They would take a shot just outside the box that found its way into the back of the net to make the score 3 to 1. After their goal we made some changes to try and get our energy back. Freshman Shedrick Davis (Rockwall, TX) provided the spark. Ryan Elias (Garland, TX) lobbed the ball over the Concordia defense to Shedrick who tucked the ball away side netting to increase AC's lead back to three. The score would stay the same the rest of the game to give AC a 4-1 victory.
Despite the small let down in the second half, the team was pleased with their performance. We got the win and that is the most important thing. Now the team looks ahead to our game against University of Dallas on Thursday. We hope to keep things going in the right direction as we finish up the season. Thanks to all the fans that came out to support the guys. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
We started the first half extremely well. Only three minutes into the game, Sam Temple (Paris, TX) took a through ball, touched the ball around the charging keeper, and placed it into the back of the net to give AC the early advantage. Less than 10 minutes later, Chris Melton (Sherman, TX) beat the keeper on another 1 v 1 to increase our lead to 2. Despite the 2 goal lead, the guys continued to push the tempo to increase the lead further. They would be reward for the efforts later in the first half. Freshman Guillermo Allande's (El Paso, TX) shot was blocked by the Concordia keeper, but Jason "Jamaica" Campbell (Kingston, Jamaica) was on the spot to put the rebound away to give AC a three goal advantage. The score would stay that way through halftime.
During halftime we talked about keeping our intensity up and putting the game away. We wanted to put Concordia under pressure early in the second half, and keep the pressure on them the rest of the game.
The team did a good job of keeping the pressure on Concordia early in the half. We created several great opportunities to increase the lead even more, but couldn't manage to put our shots away. After the first 10 minutes of the half, we let our intensity level drop, and Concordia took advantage. They would take a shot just outside the box that found its way into the back of the net to make the score 3 to 1. After their goal we made some changes to try and get our energy back. Freshman Shedrick Davis (Rockwall, TX) provided the spark. Ryan Elias (Garland, TX) lobbed the ball over the Concordia defense to Shedrick who tucked the ball away side netting to increase AC's lead back to three. The score would stay the same the rest of the game to give AC a 4-1 victory.
Despite the small let down in the second half, the team was pleased with their performance. We got the win and that is the most important thing. Now the team looks ahead to our game against University of Dallas on Thursday. We hope to keep things going in the right direction as we finish up the season. Thanks to all the fans that came out to support the guys. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
Monday, October 19, 2009
AC 2 - Sewanee 1 (Overtime)
After our win on Friday, the guys got a short workout Saturday morning. On Sunday, the team woke up for team breakfast then got ready for the game with a weekend sweep on our minds.
We started off the game very strong and created a lot of chances early. 18 minutes into the game, Alex Dawson (Spring, TX) found Chris Stein (Allen, TX) off a free kick from the right side of the field. Chris put the ball in the back of the net to make the score 1-0. After the goal the guys continued to push to get another goal, but we didn't do a good job of putting away our opportunities. 10 minutes after our goal, Sewanee would equalize off a shot from the right side of the box. AC almost took the lead as time expired in the first half, but the referee ruled that the ball hadn't crossed the goal line before the clock hit zero, so the score would remain 1-1.
During our halftime talk we talked about sharpening up offensively and putting our chances away. We didn't want to let the game slip away.
In the second half we continued to dominate the game offensively, but our finishing continued to struggle. We created several one on ones with the Sewanee keeper, but were couldn't get the ball into the back of the net. Both teams pushed very hard for the last 15 minutes to try and steal the 3 points, but neither we able to do so. We would go into overtime.
In the first overtime, as during regulation, AC dominated offensively. We created a few good chances to score but weren't able to score. We would go into a second overtime.
Before the second overtime started, we brought the team together and regained our focus and tried to relax. We knew we would get our chances to win the game, we just had to take advantage of one of them. Sewanee came out strong in the second overtime and had control for the first five minutes. However, AC would come on strong in the final five minutes of the game. The guys pushed hard and created several more good chances to win the game. With less than 30 seconds left in the game, it looked like we would have to settle for a 1-1 draw. Conrad Osborn (St. Louis, MO) took a throw-in right at midfield on the left side and found Luis Castillo (Kingwood, TX). Luis beat one defender and fired a shot on goal just outside the top of the box. The Sewanee keeper bobbled the initial shot, and Sam Temple (Paris, TX) took the rebound and slammed it into the back of the net with just 13 seconds left to play. The whole team, bench included, sprinted across the field to celebrate with each other. A great way to end the weekend.
The guys played great this weekend and were rewarded for their hard work. Now we look to ride the momentum of this weekend as we continue on the rest of the season. Thanks again to everyone who came out to support the team. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
We started off the game very strong and created a lot of chances early. 18 minutes into the game, Alex Dawson (Spring, TX) found Chris Stein (Allen, TX) off a free kick from the right side of the field. Chris put the ball in the back of the net to make the score 1-0. After the goal the guys continued to push to get another goal, but we didn't do a good job of putting away our opportunities. 10 minutes after our goal, Sewanee would equalize off a shot from the right side of the box. AC almost took the lead as time expired in the first half, but the referee ruled that the ball hadn't crossed the goal line before the clock hit zero, so the score would remain 1-1.
During our halftime talk we talked about sharpening up offensively and putting our chances away. We didn't want to let the game slip away.
In the second half we continued to dominate the game offensively, but our finishing continued to struggle. We created several one on ones with the Sewanee keeper, but were couldn't get the ball into the back of the net. Both teams pushed very hard for the last 15 minutes to try and steal the 3 points, but neither we able to do so. We would go into overtime.
In the first overtime, as during regulation, AC dominated offensively. We created a few good chances to score but weren't able to score. We would go into a second overtime.
Before the second overtime started, we brought the team together and regained our focus and tried to relax. We knew we would get our chances to win the game, we just had to take advantage of one of them. Sewanee came out strong in the second overtime and had control for the first five minutes. However, AC would come on strong in the final five minutes of the game. The guys pushed hard and created several more good chances to win the game. With less than 30 seconds left in the game, it looked like we would have to settle for a 1-1 draw. Conrad Osborn (St. Louis, MO) took a throw-in right at midfield on the left side and found Luis Castillo (Kingwood, TX). Luis beat one defender and fired a shot on goal just outside the top of the box. The Sewanee keeper bobbled the initial shot, and Sam Temple (Paris, TX) took the rebound and slammed it into the back of the net with just 13 seconds left to play. The whole team, bench included, sprinted across the field to celebrate with each other. A great way to end the weekend.
The guys played great this weekend and were rewarded for their hard work. Now we look to ride the momentum of this weekend as we continue on the rest of the season. Thanks again to everyone who came out to support the team. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
AC 1 - Oglethorpe 0
Despite the weather showing us no mercy last week, the guys still had a good week of practice. The team was upbeat all week and was looking forward to the weekend.
The first half was a defensive struggle. Defensively we did a good job of not allowing Oglethorpe to get very many good looks at goal in the first half, but we weren't able to take advantage of the opportunities we created. We went into halftime feeling good about our chances to win the game. We knew when we got an opportunity we had to put it away, and above all we wanted to keep the shutout.
The second half was much more open with both teams pushing to win the game. We created two very good chances to score, but couldn't quite put the ball in the net. However, with roughly 20 minutes to play, Jason Replogle (Denton, TX) played the ball to freshman Ryan Elias (Garland, TX) turned left and fired a left-footed shot that beat the keeper to give AC a one goal lead. Oglethorpe fought hard for the last 20 minutes of the game, but the guys were able to hold them off for the 1-0 victory.
The team felt really good about getting our first conference win of the year and our first shutout. We knew our hard work would pay off and it did so in this game. Thanks to all of the fans, alumni, and former players who came out to the game to show your support. It was a great atmosphere to play in. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
The first half was a defensive struggle. Defensively we did a good job of not allowing Oglethorpe to get very many good looks at goal in the first half, but we weren't able to take advantage of the opportunities we created. We went into halftime feeling good about our chances to win the game. We knew when we got an opportunity we had to put it away, and above all we wanted to keep the shutout.
The second half was much more open with both teams pushing to win the game. We created two very good chances to score, but couldn't quite put the ball in the net. However, with roughly 20 minutes to play, Jason Replogle (Denton, TX) played the ball to freshman Ryan Elias (Garland, TX) turned left and fired a left-footed shot that beat the keeper to give AC a one goal lead. Oglethorpe fought hard for the last 20 minutes of the game, but the guys were able to hold them off for the 1-0 victory.
The team felt really good about getting our first conference win of the year and our first shutout. We knew our hard work would pay off and it did so in this game. Thanks to all of the fans, alumni, and former players who came out to the game to show your support. It was a great atmosphere to play in. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
KOMEN GAME III
This post is long overdue, but it no doubt extremely important. As everyone knows we lost to Centre College on October 2 by a score of 3-1. However in our effort to raise money for Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Austin College beat Centre by raising nearly $3,700.00. Centre would be close to that total and, with donations that were given after the game, both programs raised nearly $8,000.00 for the cause. What a great effort on the part of both programs. This puts our total over a 3 year period at nearly $19,000.
We as a program are extremely privileged to be a part of this game. Thanks to everyone that donated on our behalf or at all. It is truly a wonderful cause as we work to beat breast cancer forever.
We as a program are extremely privileged to be a part of this game. Thanks to everyone that donated on our behalf or at all. It is truly a wonderful cause as we work to beat breast cancer forever.
AC 0 - Colorado College 4
This is not the outcome that it needed to be in Colorado Springs on Saturday. Despite cold weather that some of my guys have never had to deal with, this result should have been different. Austin College came out to start the game with an energy to attack and get forward like we have not all year. AC had four corners and several good opportunities in the first 15 of this game, but did not take advantage of this.
Following a foul just outside our 18 box, CC would get on the board with a free kick goal. Not how we wanted to start. CC would then roll off 3 more goals, 2 in the first half and 1 in the second to win 4-0.
This team has talent, but lots of youth. This youth, and essentially, a lack of maturity, is what is keeping us from getting over the hump. As I have told the boys, its all right there, but we have to learn from our mistakes. We will and are looking forward to the next half of the season.
Thanks to everyone for their continued support. We will, as always, continue to work hard and represent Austin College Soccer the best we can.
Following a foul just outside our 18 box, CC would get on the board with a free kick goal. Not how we wanted to start. CC would then roll off 3 more goals, 2 in the first half and 1 in the second to win 4-0.
This team has talent, but lots of youth. This youth, and essentially, a lack of maturity, is what is keeping us from getting over the hump. As I have told the boys, its all right there, but we have to learn from our mistakes. We will and are looking forward to the next half of the season.
Thanks to everyone for their continued support. We will, as always, continue to work hard and represent Austin College Soccer the best we can.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Training in Colorado
We flew out of DFW this morning and arrived in Colorado Springs shortly after noon. We went directly to Freshman GK Russell Pompea's house and were served a great lunch by his parents. Always nice to get a nice meal on the road. After that we went to CC for a light kick around and to stretch our legs.
The weather was about 35 degrees and overcast. We are supposed to get some snow showers this evening and in the morning with the weather around kick-off to be 32 and snowing. Should be fun.
The weather was about 35 degrees and overcast. We are supposed to get some snow showers this evening and in the morning with the weather around kick-off to be 32 and snowing. Should be fun.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
See the Colorado Game Online
Our game on Saturday at Colorado College can be viewed online with both live stats and live video streaming. The links can found on Colorado College Athletics website or you can cut and paste the links below. There is a cost for the live video stream...$7 I believe.
http://www.b2livetv.com/partner_members.asp?id=14&s=1196&stype=Sports%20Soccer%20Men%27s
or on the Men's Soccer homepage:
http://www.cctigers.com/index.aspx?tab=soccer&path=MSOC
Stay tuned as I plan to update the blog with pictures as we travel this weekend. Weather right now at kick-off is set to be 32 degrees with possible snow showers.
In addition, as was done last weekend, our game on Saturday should be updated on Twitter. Our twitter account can be found at www.twitter.com/acsoccer.
On a final note, I just wanted to say how proud I am of the boys and our result in our fundraiser against Centre in benefit of Susan G Komen for the Cure. We beat Centre by raising $3,600 prior to game time and with both reaching a total of nearly $7,000. More to come on this next week!
Thanks for everyone's continued support. This is a great group of young men and we will continue to push forward with a passion and desire to get things done.
~ Coach Hudson
http://www.b2livetv.com/partner_members.asp?id=14&s=1196&stype=Sports%20Soccer%20Men%27s
or on the Men's Soccer homepage:
http://www.cctigers.com/index.aspx?tab=soccer&path=MSOC
Stay tuned as I plan to update the blog with pictures as we travel this weekend. Weather right now at kick-off is set to be 32 degrees with possible snow showers.
In addition, as was done last weekend, our game on Saturday should be updated on Twitter. Our twitter account can be found at www.twitter.com/acsoccer.
On a final note, I just wanted to say how proud I am of the boys and our result in our fundraiser against Centre in benefit of Susan G Komen for the Cure. We beat Centre by raising $3,600 prior to game time and with both reaching a total of nearly $7,000. More to come on this next week!
Thanks for everyone's continued support. This is a great group of young men and we will continue to push forward with a passion and desire to get things done.
~ Coach Hudson
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
AC 0 - DePauw 1
After the Centre game we traveled to Indiana to rest up for the game against DePauw. The team had a fun kick-around Saturday afternoon and then went out for a nice dinner that night. On Sunday, the weather couldn't have been better to play soccer. The field was in great condition too, so the boys were excited to play.
Both teams looked very sharp early. We talked about the importance of work ethic and winning 50/50 balls before the game, and our guys did a good job of taking it to heart. Stephen Crisco (Weatherford, TX) was strong in the air and won most of the 50/50's in the middle of the field. Edwin Cole (El Paso, TX) was also strong for us controlling the defenders. Towards the end of the half both teams created a few chances to take the lead, but the defenses would hold to make the halftime score 0-0.
In the second half the team continued to have a good work ethic. We made some great runs out of the midfield and our movement off the ball was good. The game continued to be a defensive struggle for much of the half until DePauw was awarded a very questionable free kick. The DePauw player placed the ball over the wall and just out of the reach of Grant Gosselin (Phoenix, AZ) to make the score 1-0. The boys never gave up and worked extremely hard to get the tying goal. We had a great chance to equalize late in the game, but the DePauw goalkeeper came up big. The game would end 1-0.
It's tough to lose the way we did, but despite the loss, we were really pleased with how the guys played. Thanks to all of the fans who were at the game on Sunday to cheer the team on. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
Both teams looked very sharp early. We talked about the importance of work ethic and winning 50/50 balls before the game, and our guys did a good job of taking it to heart. Stephen Crisco (Weatherford, TX) was strong in the air and won most of the 50/50's in the middle of the field. Edwin Cole (El Paso, TX) was also strong for us controlling the defenders. Towards the end of the half both teams created a few chances to take the lead, but the defenses would hold to make the halftime score 0-0.
In the second half the team continued to have a good work ethic. We made some great runs out of the midfield and our movement off the ball was good. The game continued to be a defensive struggle for much of the half until DePauw was awarded a very questionable free kick. The DePauw player placed the ball over the wall and just out of the reach of Grant Gosselin (Phoenix, AZ) to make the score 1-0. The boys never gave up and worked extremely hard to get the tying goal. We had a great chance to equalize late in the game, but the DePauw goalkeeper came up big. The game would end 1-0.
It's tough to lose the way we did, but despite the loss, we were really pleased with how the guys played. Thanks to all of the fans who were at the game on Sunday to cheer the team on. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
AC 1 - Centre 3 (Komen Game III)
This is always a special game for the team. What the guys do for the fight against breast cancer is one of the best things the team is apart of. This year, as in the past, both teams did a fantastic job of raising money. Combined, Austin College and Centre raised almost $7,000 for the Susan G. Komen for the Cure! Our guys ended up raising about $3600 to make us the winner.
We knew going into the game that we would have to weather an early storm from Centre. They came out very quickly and created some chances, but the team handled it and go into a rhythm. Chris Stein (Allen, TX), Robert Lamilla (Coppell, TX), Andy Johnson (Tulsa, OK), and Linc Kendall (Houston, TX) all had great games for us at the outside midfield position. About midway through the first half, Centre would take the lead off a shot from the top of the box to make the score 1-0. The game continued to be back and forth for the rest of the half but no other goals would be scored.
Going into the second half we felt confident about our chances to win the game. The boys came out strong and produced some good opportunities. However, Centre would increase their lead to 2 after a rebound from a free kick with 34 minutes to play. The Centre player hit a great free kick, but Grant Gosselin (Phoenix, AZ) made a great save to keep out the first shot. However, another Centre player was waiting for the rebound and managed to put the shot away. Grant played well in goal and came up with a few other great saves. With about 20 minutes left in the game, we had some fantastic buildup. Chris Stein (Allen, TX) would take a pass from the left side and take a fantastic shot outside of the box and put the ball over the Centre goalkeeper and into the back of the net to make the score 2-1. The team created several other chances to equalize, but couldn't put one away. Centre would increase their lead to 3-1 with 10 minutes to play. The game would end 3-1.
I'd like to thank the Hudson family for having the team over for pre-game lunch before the Centre game. The food was awesome and the guys really enjoyed it. Also, thanks to all the other fans who came out to support the team. We had a good amount of supporters despite being so far from home. The team really appreciated it. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
We knew going into the game that we would have to weather an early storm from Centre. They came out very quickly and created some chances, but the team handled it and go into a rhythm. Chris Stein (Allen, TX), Robert Lamilla (Coppell, TX), Andy Johnson (Tulsa, OK), and Linc Kendall (Houston, TX) all had great games for us at the outside midfield position. About midway through the first half, Centre would take the lead off a shot from the top of the box to make the score 1-0. The game continued to be back and forth for the rest of the half but no other goals would be scored.
Going into the second half we felt confident about our chances to win the game. The boys came out strong and produced some good opportunities. However, Centre would increase their lead to 2 after a rebound from a free kick with 34 minutes to play. The Centre player hit a great free kick, but Grant Gosselin (Phoenix, AZ) made a great save to keep out the first shot. However, another Centre player was waiting for the rebound and managed to put the shot away. Grant played well in goal and came up with a few other great saves. With about 20 minutes left in the game, we had some fantastic buildup. Chris Stein (Allen, TX) would take a pass from the left side and take a fantastic shot outside of the box and put the ball over the Centre goalkeeper and into the back of the net to make the score 2-1. The team created several other chances to equalize, but couldn't put one away. Centre would increase their lead to 3-1 with 10 minutes to play. The game would end 3-1.
I'd like to thank the Hudson family for having the team over for pre-game lunch before the Centre game. The food was awesome and the guys really enjoyed it. Also, thanks to all the other fans who came out to support the team. We had a good amount of supporters despite being so far from home. The team really appreciated it. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
Monday, September 28, 2009
AC 4 - TLU 2
It feels great to finally get the monkey off our back! The guys have been working hard to get that first win and that hard work finally paid off.
The boys looked strong from the start of the game. Our work ethic was good and we created some good opportunities. 19 minutes in, Sam Temple (Paris, TX) would take a rebound and put it away to give us the lead 1-0. Just 10 minutes later, Chris Melton (Sherman, TX) showed off some fancy footwork to take the ball around the TLU goalkeeper and put the ball into the back of the net to make the score 2-0. The score would stay that way the rest of the half.
During halftime, we stressed the importance of putting the game away early in the second half. We didn't want TLU to feel like they were in the game. Only four minutes into the second half, Alex Dawson (Spring, TX) would beat the goalie with a beautiful free kick to make the score 3-0. Despite the lead, we still wanted the team to keep up the work ethic and consistency. In the 71st minute, Josh Pollock (San Antonio, TX) would take a ball inside the box and hit a great left-footed shot to give us a 4-0 cushion. After we scored our fourth goal, we didn't do a good job of finishing the game out. TLU would score two goals in the final 15 minutes to make the final score 4-2.
Overall the team felt really good to get our first win. Now we want to take this win and keep the momentum rolling as we travel to Centre and DePauw this upcoming weekend. Thanks to all the fans who came out and cheered us to victory. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
The boys looked strong from the start of the game. Our work ethic was good and we created some good opportunities. 19 minutes in, Sam Temple (Paris, TX) would take a rebound and put it away to give us the lead 1-0. Just 10 minutes later, Chris Melton (Sherman, TX) showed off some fancy footwork to take the ball around the TLU goalkeeper and put the ball into the back of the net to make the score 2-0. The score would stay that way the rest of the half.
During halftime, we stressed the importance of putting the game away early in the second half. We didn't want TLU to feel like they were in the game. Only four minutes into the second half, Alex Dawson (Spring, TX) would beat the goalie with a beautiful free kick to make the score 3-0. Despite the lead, we still wanted the team to keep up the work ethic and consistency. In the 71st minute, Josh Pollock (San Antonio, TX) would take a ball inside the box and hit a great left-footed shot to give us a 4-0 cushion. After we scored our fourth goal, we didn't do a good job of finishing the game out. TLU would score two goals in the final 15 minutes to make the final score 4-2.
Overall the team felt really good to get our first win. Now we want to take this win and keep the momentum rolling as we travel to Centre and DePauw this upcoming weekend. Thanks to all the fans who came out and cheered us to victory. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
AC 1 - DFW Tornadoes 1 (Reserves Game)
With so many new players on the team, we wanted to see how they would do in some different positions and how different players would play with each other, so we invited DFW Tornadoes to come up for a friendly game.
In the first half, we saw good work ethic and some good play from the team. Kyle Fitzpatrick (Flower Mound, TX) was solid in the back and forwards Jason "Jamaica" Campbell (Kingston, Jamaica) and Shedrick Davis (Rockwall, TX) created some good chances for us. We also got good play from Matt Rogers (Sherman, TX) and Josh Pollock (San Antonio, TX). Both teams created some chances to score, but none ended up in the back of the net. We would go into halftime tied 0-0.
The second half brought more of the same with both teams unable to put a goal away. However, with less than 20 minutes to play, DFW Tornadoes would take the lead. The boys fought hard to try and get the goal back and were rewarded for their effort. We were awarded a set piece with less than three minutes to go. After a scrum in the box, Shedrick Davis (Rockwall, TX) would win the ball and put it away. The game would in 1-1.
We were happy with how the team played fought back after we went down. The guys played well and worked hard. Thanks to everyone who came out to support the team. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
In the first half, we saw good work ethic and some good play from the team. Kyle Fitzpatrick (Flower Mound, TX) was solid in the back and forwards Jason "Jamaica" Campbell (Kingston, Jamaica) and Shedrick Davis (Rockwall, TX) created some good chances for us. We also got good play from Matt Rogers (Sherman, TX) and Josh Pollock (San Antonio, TX). Both teams created some chances to score, but none ended up in the back of the net. We would go into halftime tied 0-0.
The second half brought more of the same with both teams unable to put a goal away. However, with less than 20 minutes to play, DFW Tornadoes would take the lead. The boys fought hard to try and get the goal back and were rewarded for their effort. We were awarded a set piece with less than three minutes to go. After a scrum in the box, Shedrick Davis (Rockwall, TX) would win the ball and put it away. The game would in 1-1.
We were happy with how the team played fought back after we went down. The guys played well and worked hard. Thanks to everyone who came out to support the team. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Komen Game III
Over the past two seasons, Austin College and Centre College Men's Soccer programs have combined to raise money and awareness for breast cancer research on behalf of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. We have combined to raise over $12,000 the past two years.
This year, our cause will continue with the game being played on Friday October 2 at 6:00pm in Danville, KY.
This is a special thing that both programs do. Breast Cancer is something that will affect each and everyone of us directly or indirectly in our lifetimes.
For the next 10 days, the boys here at AC will work with everyone they can to raise money and attempted to beat Centre in total money raised. Below is a link that will take you to a PDF file that outlines the history of the game and where and how money can be donated. Any amount is a special gift and all donations can be deemed tax deductable. Checks will recieve a receipt from Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
I encourage you to spread the word on this cause as we look to beat Centre on and off the field!
Should you have any questions, don't hesitate to get in touch. mhudson@austincollege.edu
See the PDF here... http://www.centre.edu/web/athletics/soccer_m/docs/Komen%20Game%20III.pdf
This year, our cause will continue with the game being played on Friday October 2 at 6:00pm in Danville, KY.
This is a special thing that both programs do. Breast Cancer is something that will affect each and everyone of us directly or indirectly in our lifetimes.
For the next 10 days, the boys here at AC will work with everyone they can to raise money and attempted to beat Centre in total money raised. Below is a link that will take you to a PDF file that outlines the history of the game and where and how money can be donated. Any amount is a special gift and all donations can be deemed tax deductable. Checks will recieve a receipt from Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
I encourage you to spread the word on this cause as we look to beat Centre on and off the field!
Should you have any questions, don't hesitate to get in touch. mhudson@austincollege.edu
See the PDF here... http://www.centre.edu/web/athletics/soccer_m/docs/Komen%20Game%20III.pdf
Monday, September 21, 2009
AC 1 - Southwestern 2
After playing in an unfamiliar stadium, the team was glad to be back on our home field. Despite the field conditions, we were ready to play.
We came out at the start of the game strong and created several chances. The pace of the game settled down after the initial few minutes as both teams get into their groove. Southwestern would be the first to get on the board. A ball directly from a corner kick found its way into the back of the net to make the score 1-0. Neither team would score again in the first half.
At half time we talked about the good and bad of the first half and looked to take it to Southwestern from the very beginning of the second half. The boys came out hard and created some great chances to score. Finally, we would get our equalizer thanks to a combined effort from forwards Sam Temple (Paris, TX) and Chris Melton (Sherman, TX). Both Sam and Chris went up to challenge Southwestern's goalkeeper for a ball near the goal and managed to overpower the goalie and put the ball in the back of the net to make the score 1-1. The game continued to be a back and forth struggle for the rest off the half. With less than 20 minutes to play, Southwestern would take the lead again off a corner kick. The boys pushed hard to even the score, but the game would ultimately end 2-1. A tough loss for the team, but we hope to build off of the game and continue to fix our mistakes.
Next weekend we take a break from conference play. We are set to play Texas Lutheran University on Sunday at 2 P.M. Thanks again to all of the fans that came out to cheer the team on. The guys really appreciate all the support. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
We came out at the start of the game strong and created several chances. The pace of the game settled down after the initial few minutes as both teams get into their groove. Southwestern would be the first to get on the board. A ball directly from a corner kick found its way into the back of the net to make the score 1-0. Neither team would score again in the first half.
At half time we talked about the good and bad of the first half and looked to take it to Southwestern from the very beginning of the second half. The boys came out hard and created some great chances to score. Finally, we would get our equalizer thanks to a combined effort from forwards Sam Temple (Paris, TX) and Chris Melton (Sherman, TX). Both Sam and Chris went up to challenge Southwestern's goalkeeper for a ball near the goal and managed to overpower the goalie and put the ball in the back of the net to make the score 1-1. The game continued to be a back and forth struggle for the rest off the half. With less than 20 minutes to play, Southwestern would take the lead again off a corner kick. The boys pushed hard to even the score, but the game would ultimately end 2-1. A tough loss for the team, but we hope to build off of the game and continue to fix our mistakes.
Next weekend we take a break from conference play. We are set to play Texas Lutheran University on Sunday at 2 P.M. Thanks again to all of the fans that came out to cheer the team on. The guys really appreciate all the support. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
AC 0 -Trinity 3
Trinity came into the game ranked #12 nationally, but the boys were looking forward to the challenge. Due to inclement weather throughout the week, we were forced to play the game at Denison High School's stadium.
The game started off quickly. We knew going into the game that we would be defending more than we were attacking, and did a good job of it for most of the first half. Chris Melton (Sherman, TX) and Sam Temple (Paris, TX) did a great job of working all over the field. In the 29th minute, though, Trinity would take the lead off of a corner kick. Four minutes later, a mishap on our part would allow Trinity to increase their lead to 2. The score would stay that way for the remainder of the half.
Even though we were down, the team still felt good about our chances. Several times in the second half, we looked and played like the better team. Unfortunately, we never found the back of the net. Trinity would score their third goal very late in the half when we were pressing to try and get a goal.
Despite the loss, the boys did a lot of good things. We fought hard against a quality team. Thanks to everyone who made the extra drive to the stadium to show their support for the team. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
The game started off quickly. We knew going into the game that we would be defending more than we were attacking, and did a good job of it for most of the first half. Chris Melton (Sherman, TX) and Sam Temple (Paris, TX) did a great job of working all over the field. In the 29th minute, though, Trinity would take the lead off of a corner kick. Four minutes later, a mishap on our part would allow Trinity to increase their lead to 2. The score would stay that way for the remainder of the half.
Even though we were down, the team still felt good about our chances. Several times in the second half, we looked and played like the better team. Unfortunately, we never found the back of the net. Trinity would score their third goal very late in the half when we were pressing to try and get a goal.
Despite the loss, the boys did a lot of good things. We fought hard against a quality team. Thanks to everyone who made the extra drive to the stadium to show their support for the team. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Trinity Game Relocated
Weather Forces Game Relocation for ’Roo Soccer
SHERMAN, Texas – Due to the weather that has hit the Texoma area over the past week, it has been decided that the Austin College men’s and women’s soccer games against Trinity University previously scheduled to be played at 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. on Friday, September 18 on the Austin College campus will be played at Denison High School’s Munson Stadium.
The men’s soccer team will take on Trinity at 2:00 p.m. with the women following at 4:00 p.m. Directions to Munson Stadium can be found at the following link: http://www.dhsjacketboosters.org/
SHERMAN, Texas – Due to the weather that has hit the Texoma area over the past week, it has been decided that the Austin College men’s and women’s soccer games against Trinity University previously scheduled to be played at 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. on Friday, September 18 on the Austin College campus will be played at Denison High School’s Munson Stadium.
The men’s soccer team will take on Trinity at 2:00 p.m. with the women following at 4:00 p.m. Directions to Munson Stadium can be found at the following link: http://www.dhsjacketboosters.org/
Sunday, September 13, 2009
GAME vs. CONCORDIA CANCELLED
Game today has been cancelled due to rain/field conditions. The game is looking to be rescheduled.
AC 1 - UMHB 2 OT
First off, thanks to all the fans who weathered the storm to watch us play. It was awesome to still have people to support the team in some less than perfect weather.
UMHB is a good team that has already turned some heads this season when they beat Trinity University in their opening game of the season. The team was looking forward to the challenge. The boys played very well, but ultimately it was decisions that made the difference between a win and a loss for us.
The first half was a back and forth struggle for both the teams. We created a few opportunities to take the lead but couldn't convert. UMHB also had a few chances but Grant Gosselin (Phoenix, AZ) kept them at bay. We would go into the half tied 0-0.
The second half started out the same way as the first half. Both teams created some chances. In the 65th minute, UMHB would take the lead off a penalty kick. The boys fought back hard and would tie the game up 10 minutes later. Alex Dawson (Spring, TX) would take the ball in the middle of the field and fire a left footed shot on goal. The goalie for UMHB fumbled the shot and Luis Castillo (Kingwood, TX) would pound home the rebound. The second half would finish tied at 1-1.
We regrouped before the overtime periods started and felt good about our chances. Both teams played defensive for the first few minutes of overtime and no real chances were created. With just over 2 minutes to go in the first overtime, UMHB capitalized on a defensive mistake on our part and scored the game winner. A tough way to lose, especially in overtime.
The team is looking forward to starting conference next week. We will play Trinity University on Friday and then play Southwestern University on the following Sunday. Please come out and support the team as we look to start off conference on the right foot. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
UMHB is a good team that has already turned some heads this season when they beat Trinity University in their opening game of the season. The team was looking forward to the challenge. The boys played very well, but ultimately it was decisions that made the difference between a win and a loss for us.
The first half was a back and forth struggle for both the teams. We created a few opportunities to take the lead but couldn't convert. UMHB also had a few chances but Grant Gosselin (Phoenix, AZ) kept them at bay. We would go into the half tied 0-0.
The second half started out the same way as the first half. Both teams created some chances. In the 65th minute, UMHB would take the lead off a penalty kick. The boys fought back hard and would tie the game up 10 minutes later. Alex Dawson (Spring, TX) would take the ball in the middle of the field and fire a left footed shot on goal. The goalie for UMHB fumbled the shot and Luis Castillo (Kingwood, TX) would pound home the rebound. The second half would finish tied at 1-1.
We regrouped before the overtime periods started and felt good about our chances. Both teams played defensive for the first few minutes of overtime and no real chances were created. With just over 2 minutes to go in the first overtime, UMHB capitalized on a defensive mistake on our part and scored the game winner. A tough way to lose, especially in overtime.
The team is looking forward to starting conference next week. We will play Trinity University on Friday and then play Southwestern University on the following Sunday. Please come out and support the team as we look to start off conference on the right foot. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
Thursday, September 10, 2009
SCAC Kicks Weekly
Every week the SCAC produces a Kicks Weekly that highlights the previous weeks performances of each of the conference teams. This includes Players of the Week winners. Check it out!
http://www.scacsports.com/sports/msoc/2009-10/weekly_reports/MSOCkw1.pdf
http://www.scacsports.com/sports/msoc/2009-10/weekly_reports/MSOCkw1.pdf
TIME CHANGE FOR SUNDAY
The time for our game against Concordia University has been moved from 1:00pm to 3:00pm. Please make note of this change.
See you this weekend!
See you this weekend!
Monday, September 7, 2009
AC 2 - LeTourneau 4
This was a very frustrating loss for the team. The boys had a pretty good week of practice leading up to the game. We were all looking forward to getting back on the field again.
However, two early defensive mistakes would see us down 2-0 within the first 5 minutes. The boys responded a little later in the half when Alex Dawson (Spring, TX) found Chris Melton (Sherman, TX) inside the box. Chris put away the header to make the score 2-1. With around 15 minutes to play in the half, poor marking on a corner would allow LeTourneau to increase the lead to 3-1. It would only take us 2 minutes to retaliate. Freshman Linc Kendall (Houston, TX) crossed the ball into the box to freshman Andy Johnson (Tulsa, OK) who beat his man and headed the ball into the back of the net. We would go into halftime down 3-2.
We created a few opportunities in the second half to equalize but could never quite get the ball in the net. Another defensive mishap late in the second half lead to LeTourneau's fourth goal of the game.
One bright spot from the game was the continued strong play from our freshman. Edwin Cole (El Paso, TX) continued to look dangerous at the forward position. Linc Kendall (Houston, TX), Guillermo Allande (El Paso, TX), and Andy Johnson (Tulsa, OK) also had good games. Thanks again to all the fans that come out to support us. We look forward to seeing you again this weekend. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
However, two early defensive mistakes would see us down 2-0 within the first 5 minutes. The boys responded a little later in the half when Alex Dawson (Spring, TX) found Chris Melton (Sherman, TX) inside the box. Chris put away the header to make the score 2-1. With around 15 minutes to play in the half, poor marking on a corner would allow LeTourneau to increase the lead to 3-1. It would only take us 2 minutes to retaliate. Freshman Linc Kendall (Houston, TX) crossed the ball into the box to freshman Andy Johnson (Tulsa, OK) who beat his man and headed the ball into the back of the net. We would go into halftime down 3-2.
We created a few opportunities in the second half to equalize but could never quite get the ball in the net. Another defensive mishap late in the second half lead to LeTourneau's fourth goal of the game.
One bright spot from the game was the continued strong play from our freshman. Edwin Cole (El Paso, TX) continued to look dangerous at the forward position. Linc Kendall (Houston, TX), Guillermo Allande (El Paso, TX), and Andy Johnson (Tulsa, OK) also had good games. Thanks again to all the fans that come out to support us. We look forward to seeing you again this weekend. GO ROOS!
-Matt Dickinson
Thursday, September 3, 2009
AC 1 - University of Dallas 2
The team had been looking forward to getting on the field for the first time and were excited about starting off the season. As a side note, seniors Alex Dawson (Spring, TX) and Mike Cline (Garland, TX) were selected by the team to be this years captains.
UD has always been a rival of ours, they are a quality team that made it to the NCAA Tournament last year. The boys came out sharp and looked like the better team in terms of technical ability, fitness, and work ethic. UD had an opportunity to take the lead early when one of their players beat our defender, but Grant Gosselin (Phoenix, AZ) made a fantastic save to keep us level. Jason Replogle (Denton, TX) and Chris Stein (Allen, TX) both had good games controlling the midfield. We put UD on their heals early by controlling possesion and getting good runs from our forwards and midfielders. Freshmen Edwin Cole (El Paso, TX) and Andy Johnson (Tulsa, OK) came on in the first half and did a very good job as well. 14 minutes in we would get our reward. Alex Dawson would receive a ball from Mike Cline just outside the 18 yard box and took a shot that found its way through the keepers hands into the back on the net to put us up 1-0. It wasn't the prettiest goal, but we've preached to the guys that you have to shot to score and this was an prime example. We would go into halftime with that lead.
During our halftime talk we stressed to the team how important it was for us to come out sharp. We knew that UD was going to come out very hard and we needed to make their intensity and then raise it one level further.
At the start of the second half, UD put all the pressure on us. They were the ones controlling the game, and we couldn't gain our composure back and settle down. Even though we didn't play very well in the second half, we created several good chances to increase our lead. Freshmen Guillermo Allande (El Paso, TX) and Lincoln Kendall (Houston, TX) combined to create a great chance early in the second half. However, with roughly 20 minutes to go, UD would equalize off a corner. Once UD got even with us they continued to out work us and would get another to make the score 2-1 with about 10 minutes to play. Ironically, those last 10 minutes were probably the best we played all game. We played with a sense of urgency and had a few chances to even the score, but the boys fell short so the game would end 2-1 in favor of Dallas.
Despite the loss, we saw some very encouraging things from the team. It hurts to lose a game, especially in that way; so the boys plan on using this game as motivation to never have to have this feeling again. Thanks to everyone who came out to the game. The team really appreciates all the support that you bring. We play LeTourneau this upcoming Saturday at 2p.m. so please come out again and support the team as we look forward to getting our first win of the season! GO ROOS!
Thanks,
Matt Dickinson
UD has always been a rival of ours, they are a quality team that made it to the NCAA Tournament last year. The boys came out sharp and looked like the better team in terms of technical ability, fitness, and work ethic. UD had an opportunity to take the lead early when one of their players beat our defender, but Grant Gosselin (Phoenix, AZ) made a fantastic save to keep us level. Jason Replogle (Denton, TX) and Chris Stein (Allen, TX) both had good games controlling the midfield. We put UD on their heals early by controlling possesion and getting good runs from our forwards and midfielders. Freshmen Edwin Cole (El Paso, TX) and Andy Johnson (Tulsa, OK) came on in the first half and did a very good job as well. 14 minutes in we would get our reward. Alex Dawson would receive a ball from Mike Cline just outside the 18 yard box and took a shot that found its way through the keepers hands into the back on the net to put us up 1-0. It wasn't the prettiest goal, but we've preached to the guys that you have to shot to score and this was an prime example. We would go into halftime with that lead.
During our halftime talk we stressed to the team how important it was for us to come out sharp. We knew that UD was going to come out very hard and we needed to make their intensity and then raise it one level further.
At the start of the second half, UD put all the pressure on us. They were the ones controlling the game, and we couldn't gain our composure back and settle down. Even though we didn't play very well in the second half, we created several good chances to increase our lead. Freshmen Guillermo Allande (El Paso, TX) and Lincoln Kendall (Houston, TX) combined to create a great chance early in the second half. However, with roughly 20 minutes to go, UD would equalize off a corner. Once UD got even with us they continued to out work us and would get another to make the score 2-1 with about 10 minutes to play. Ironically, those last 10 minutes were probably the best we played all game. We played with a sense of urgency and had a few chances to even the score, but the boys fell short so the game would end 2-1 in favor of Dallas.
Despite the loss, we saw some very encouraging things from the team. It hurts to lose a game, especially in that way; so the boys plan on using this game as motivation to never have to have this feeling again. Thanks to everyone who came out to the game. The team really appreciates all the support that you bring. We play LeTourneau this upcoming Saturday at 2p.m. so please come out again and support the team as we look forward to getting our first win of the season! GO ROOS!
Thanks,
Matt Dickinson
Friday, August 28, 2009
Preseason
Ten days ago the boys reported to Training Camp for the upcoming 2009 Fall season. There were 16 newcomers along with 19 returners from last season. It was an exciting day for all the players and coaches as this was the day they had all been looking forward to for the better part of a year.
That first night, after a long day of paperwork and meetings, the boys ran their first fitness test and did extremely well. The next morning, finally, we got on the field and were able to begin to see what this group was capable of. With only 3 days of training before our first scrimmage, was important the boys work hard and gel quickly. With nearly half the team newcomers integration was key, but a difficult task. A credit to the team though after the first couple days there was already some decent team chemistry.
By the time Saturday rolled around with our first scrimmage the boys were working together pretty well and showing flashes of what we know this group is capable of as a team. The team was very excited to finally get on the field 11 v 11 against another team. The coaches were very confident in the group and expected a win which the boys promptly delivered, 2-0. We controlled most of the game and created many more chances than the scoreline shows, despite the fact that we played 3 separate groups of 11 in the 3 30 minute periods. Overall, everyone was pretty pleased despite the fact we all knew there was a lot of work to do before the season kicks off September 1st against UD.
After the scrimmage, we gave the boys a pretty light day and a half to let them recover from the very intense work of the last 4 days, and ahead of another very tough and intense 3 days ahead of our annual Cardinal/ Gold scrimmage where the boys are split into 2 separate teams and play a regulation game. The Cardinal/ Gold scrimmage is very important because it is our last chance to really evaluate the team 11 v 11 before the season opener because the Freshman are pulled from practice for orientation until the day before our first game.
We split the boys into the 1st and 2nd teams with their own coaches and put the boys through a regulation game. For most of the game the 2 teams were pretty evenly matched, but the 1st team capitalized on some tired legs at the end of the 2nd half to come out on top.
After our scrimmage we only had one full practice left, so after evaluating some of the game film with the boys we decided to reward them with a more fun practice yesterday. We split them into their Steak League teams and let them play small sided games for the whole practice. Practice was still very competitive and the highlight of the day was Jason "Jamaica" Campbell's goal on bicycle kick to help Johnny Lara's team to an undefeated day which helped them open up a larger gap on the rest of the field.
It's 4 days until the season kicks off and overall Training Camp has gone very well. The boys have great team chemistry and are playing extremely well. We are all very excited and confident about the upcoming season, and are counting down the days until we can finally get on the field against University of Dallas and kick a ball in anger. Tuesday September 1st at 5 pm here at Austin College, hopefully we will see you there cheering us on to victory.
That first night, after a long day of paperwork and meetings, the boys ran their first fitness test and did extremely well. The next morning, finally, we got on the field and were able to begin to see what this group was capable of. With only 3 days of training before our first scrimmage, was important the boys work hard and gel quickly. With nearly half the team newcomers integration was key, but a difficult task. A credit to the team though after the first couple days there was already some decent team chemistry.
By the time Saturday rolled around with our first scrimmage the boys were working together pretty well and showing flashes of what we know this group is capable of as a team. The team was very excited to finally get on the field 11 v 11 against another team. The coaches were very confident in the group and expected a win which the boys promptly delivered, 2-0. We controlled most of the game and created many more chances than the scoreline shows, despite the fact that we played 3 separate groups of 11 in the 3 30 minute periods. Overall, everyone was pretty pleased despite the fact we all knew there was a lot of work to do before the season kicks off September 1st against UD.
After the scrimmage, we gave the boys a pretty light day and a half to let them recover from the very intense work of the last 4 days, and ahead of another very tough and intense 3 days ahead of our annual Cardinal/ Gold scrimmage where the boys are split into 2 separate teams and play a regulation game. The Cardinal/ Gold scrimmage is very important because it is our last chance to really evaluate the team 11 v 11 before the season opener because the Freshman are pulled from practice for orientation until the day before our first game.
We split the boys into the 1st and 2nd teams with their own coaches and put the boys through a regulation game. For most of the game the 2 teams were pretty evenly matched, but the 1st team capitalized on some tired legs at the end of the 2nd half to come out on top.
After our scrimmage we only had one full practice left, so after evaluating some of the game film with the boys we decided to reward them with a more fun practice yesterday. We split them into their Steak League teams and let them play small sided games for the whole practice. Practice was still very competitive and the highlight of the day was Jason "Jamaica" Campbell's goal on bicycle kick to help Johnny Lara's team to an undefeated day which helped them open up a larger gap on the rest of the field.
It's 4 days until the season kicks off and overall Training Camp has gone very well. The boys have great team chemistry and are playing extremely well. We are all very excited and confident about the upcoming season, and are counting down the days until we can finally get on the field against University of Dallas and kick a ball in anger. Tuesday September 1st at 5 pm here at Austin College, hopefully we will see you there cheering us on to victory.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
ALUMNI GAME - MAY 2
The 2009 Alumni game will take place on Saturday May 2 at 2:00pm. The game will be played on the Austin College Soccer game field. The women's alumni game will follow at 4:00pm. A post-game cookout is in the plans. Please feel free to contact Coach Hudson at mhudson@austincollege.edu if you have any questions or you would like to help out with the event.
Please RSVP with Sandra Miller at smiller@austincollege.edu
We look forward to seeing you there!
Please RSVP with Sandra Miller at smiller@austincollege.edu
We look forward to seeing you there!
Spring Season Schedule
The Austin College Men's Soccer team will start their spring season on March 30 culminating with two games on April 25 and one on May 2.
Saturday April 25 @ University of Texas-Dallas
AC vs. UT-D 2:00
AC vs. Richland College 4:00
Saturday May 2 @ Austin College
AC vs Austin College Alumni 2:00
Saturday April 25 @ University of Texas-Dallas
AC vs. UT-D 2:00
AC vs. Richland College 4:00
Saturday May 2 @ Austin College
AC vs Austin College Alumni 2:00
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Austin College #1 In Study Abroad
Austin College is Ranked No. 1 in the Nation
for Undergraduate Study Abroad
November 24, 2008 -- SHERMAN, TEXAS -- Austin College was ranked No. 1 in the nation for its study abroad participation rates among baccalaureate institutions, according to the Open Doors 2008 report released November 17 by the Institute of International Education (IIE). This is the third top ranking for Austin College in the past five years, with the others coming in 2004 and 2006.
Over the last decade, an average 70 percent of Austin College students have studied abroad, exploring more than 50 countries on six continents. However, for the past year alone, Austin College was cited as one of 18 institutions in the nation to send more than 80 percent of their students abroad. On a percentage basis, such high participation rates make Austin College the top study abroad institution among public and private colleges and universities in the state of Texas.
According to the November 17 IIE rankings release, “While large institutions dominate in terms of absolute numbers of their students going abroad, many smaller institutions send a higher proportion of their students abroad.” The IIE data includes formal semester and year-long study abroad programs as well as short-term study.
The IIE report also highlighted a growing national trend in study abroad participation by American students, which increased 8 percent nationally in the past academic year. Again, Austin College outpaced the national trend, with the number of its students studying abroad in the fall 2008 term increasing 29 percent compared to 2007 despite the economic downturn.
“I am pleased to see Austin College maintain its strong national ranking as study abroad becomes an increasingly important aspect of American higher education,” said Austin College President Oscar C. Page. “News like this validates our commitment to providing a quality liberal arts education that is global in its focus.”
This sentiment is echoed by Truett Cates, director of study abroad for Austin College and a professor of German. “At Austin College, we see supporting and enhancing students’ international experiences as a key part of the broader mission of liberal education to train tomorrow’s global citizens.” He added, “Education ultimately is about transformation, and we take the transformation that comes with purposeful study-abroad experiences as one of the most meaningful ones available to undergraduates.”
In addition to semester or year-long programs, study abroad takes many forms at Austin College, including January Term and internship programs, as well as service opportunities. For instance, 10 Austin College students worked this summer in Ethiopia, Ghana, Guatemala, Pakistan, Peru, and Russia as the College’s first Global Outreach or “GO” Fellows. The GO program was established by the Todd and Abby Williams Foundation of Dallas and provides financial assistance for students to work on non-profit community development and service projects abroad. Other students travelled to places such as Vietnam through a vocational internship program funded by the Lilly Endowment.
“Global understanding is embedded in the mission of Austin College, and our success with study abroad complements the academic curiosity and service orientation of our students, since many of our students combine their academic experiences with service projects throughout the world,” President Page said.
The Open Doors report is published annually by the Institute of International Education, with funding from the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. The IIE release and the 2008 rankings can be found at IIE’s Web site.
About Austin College
Austin College is a leading national independent liberal arts college located just north of Dallas in Sherman, Texas. Founded in 1849, making it the oldest institution of higher education in Texas operating under original charter and name, the college is related by covenant to the Presbyterian Church (USA). Recognized nationally for academic excellence in the areas of international education, pre-professional training, and leadership studies, Austin College is one of 40 schools profiled in Loren Pope’s influential book Colleges that Change Lives.
for Undergraduate Study Abroad
November 24, 2008 -- SHERMAN, TEXAS -- Austin College was ranked No. 1 in the nation for its study abroad participation rates among baccalaureate institutions, according to the Open Doors 2008 report released November 17 by the Institute of International Education (IIE). This is the third top ranking for Austin College in the past five years, with the others coming in 2004 and 2006.
Over the last decade, an average 70 percent of Austin College students have studied abroad, exploring more than 50 countries on six continents. However, for the past year alone, Austin College was cited as one of 18 institutions in the nation to send more than 80 percent of their students abroad. On a percentage basis, such high participation rates make Austin College the top study abroad institution among public and private colleges and universities in the state of Texas.
According to the November 17 IIE rankings release, “While large institutions dominate in terms of absolute numbers of their students going abroad, many smaller institutions send a higher proportion of their students abroad.” The IIE data includes formal semester and year-long study abroad programs as well as short-term study.
The IIE report also highlighted a growing national trend in study abroad participation by American students, which increased 8 percent nationally in the past academic year. Again, Austin College outpaced the national trend, with the number of its students studying abroad in the fall 2008 term increasing 29 percent compared to 2007 despite the economic downturn.
“I am pleased to see Austin College maintain its strong national ranking as study abroad becomes an increasingly important aspect of American higher education,” said Austin College President Oscar C. Page. “News like this validates our commitment to providing a quality liberal arts education that is global in its focus.”
This sentiment is echoed by Truett Cates, director of study abroad for Austin College and a professor of German. “At Austin College, we see supporting and enhancing students’ international experiences as a key part of the broader mission of liberal education to train tomorrow’s global citizens.” He added, “Education ultimately is about transformation, and we take the transformation that comes with purposeful study-abroad experiences as one of the most meaningful ones available to undergraduates.”
In addition to semester or year-long programs, study abroad takes many forms at Austin College, including January Term and internship programs, as well as service opportunities. For instance, 10 Austin College students worked this summer in Ethiopia, Ghana, Guatemala, Pakistan, Peru, and Russia as the College’s first Global Outreach or “GO” Fellows. The GO program was established by the Todd and Abby Williams Foundation of Dallas and provides financial assistance for students to work on non-profit community development and service projects abroad. Other students travelled to places such as Vietnam through a vocational internship program funded by the Lilly Endowment.
“Global understanding is embedded in the mission of Austin College, and our success with study abroad complements the academic curiosity and service orientation of our students, since many of our students combine their academic experiences with service projects throughout the world,” President Page said.
The Open Doors report is published annually by the Institute of International Education, with funding from the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. The IIE release and the 2008 rankings can be found at IIE’s Web site.
About Austin College
Austin College is a leading national independent liberal arts college located just north of Dallas in Sherman, Texas. Founded in 1849, making it the oldest institution of higher education in Texas operating under original charter and name, the college is related by covenant to the Presbyterian Church (USA). Recognized nationally for academic excellence in the areas of international education, pre-professional training, and leadership studies, Austin College is one of 40 schools profiled in Loren Pope’s influential book Colleges that Change Lives.
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