UPDATE: The University of San Diego (USD) men’s soccer team has officially advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament, set to face Grand Canyon University on Sunday at 5 p.m. in a highly anticipated matchup at USD’s Torero Stadium. This comes after a stunning upset as traditional powerhouse UCLA was eliminated in a penalty shootout by Grand Canyon, paving the way for the Toreros to continue their championship run.
USD boasts an impressive record of 13-2-3 this season, having claimed a record fourth consecutive West Coast Conference title and securing a first-round bye in the tournament. Coach Brian Quinn has emphasized the unique opportunities within men’s college soccer, where mid-major teams often compete successfully against more prominent programs.
“Listen, I think the perception of our sport is slightly different,” stated UC Irvine coach Yossi Raz after USD’s significant victory over his ranked team earlier this season. “USD has proven to be a powerhouse. It’s a team that’s been to the playoffs three years in a row.”
Men’s college soccer is distinct from other NCAA sports, where financial disparities often dictate outcomes. In this arena, less-funded programs consistently challenge the elite, making for captivating competition. The reigning NCAA champions, the Vermont Catamounts, exemplify this trend, alongside teams like the Marshall Thundering Herd and the Denver Pioneers, who have made their mark in recent tournaments.
As the tournament unfolds, USD stands as the 9th overall seed, competing in a bracket predominantly filled with mid-major teams. Notable upsets in the tournament’s first round included Hofstra eliminating Syracuse and Western Michigan defeating Clemson, underscoring the unpredictable nature of the sport.
The landscape of men’s soccer allows for these surprises, as traditional powerhouses in other sports tend to dominate. Only nine of the top 25 teams in the latest Top Drawer Soccer poll hail from power football conferences, showcasing the depth and talent present in mid-major leagues.
“This level of competition is what makes our sport exciting,” said Quinn. “You see teams like Vermont and Marshall winning it, and that inspires us all.”
Recruitment strategies have shifted significantly, with many successful mid-major programs sourcing international talent. USD has players from countries such as England, Israel, and Brazil, allowing them to build a diverse and competitive roster. This globalization of talent is crucial for schools that may not have the same financial backing as larger programs.
As the match against Grand Canyon approaches, excitement is building among Torero fans and the community. USD’s remarkable journey in the NCAA Tournament exemplifies the potential for underdog stories to unfold, captivating the hearts of college soccer enthusiasts everywhere.
Stay tuned for updates as USD aims for a historic run in the NCAA Tournament. The game on Sunday could define their season and further solidify their status as a competitive force in men’s college soccer.
