After a loss to San Joaquin Delta College last season that narrowly kept them from the playoffs, the Hawks have a fresh start to shoot for the top.

Much like the women’s soccer team, the men’s team gained a majority of new recruits to fill the ranks alongside a handful of returning players.

Many of the new players were sought out in recruitment for the new season, head coach Ron Preble said.

“We have six returning players and 18 new recruits,” Preble said. “We went out and recruited to change our culture here in the men’s soccer program.”

The newly-gathered team has been working hard on their fitness as well as learning the style that is being implemented by the coaches, Preble said.

“We are now demanding the players have a minimum of 2.5 GPA this season and have a better standard of behavior here on campus and in the community,” Preble said. “We have had some issues that have had a negative team culture. We want character, hunger and productivity from our student athletes. We know and believe this will serve them well in their future.”

The team’s first game of the season against Lassen Community College ended in a 2-1 loss and their second game against Contra Costa College ended in a 2-0 win.Preble’s hopes for the team remain high, he said, the team seems to be humble and hardworking.

“We have the same goals every year,” Preble said. “Come together as a group and compete well as a team, compete for the conference championship, be a top team in the region, make the playoffs and be competitive in the playoffs, and to be recognized in the nation.”

After a bye on Sept. 4, the Hawks will play their home opener against Canada College at 4 p.m. on Sept. 7.

“Our players need to continue to push forward and continue their growth,” Preble said. “They must not get comfortable.”

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