Last season, Iona’s men’s soccer team was able to have one of its most impressive seasons ever. 

After finishing third in the MAAC in the regular season, the Gaels were able to come-from-behind to win 2-1 against Siena in the MAAC semifinal before losing 2-1 to top-seeded Saint Peters in the final.

 

After their strong season last year, the Gaels have already been tipped to finish first in the MAAC by the league’s 10 head coaches in the MAAC Preseason Coaches’ Poll.

In the poll, the Gaels were given 88 points; two more than Loyola (who finished fourth in the MAAC last year), and Iona is nearly 30 points ahead of Saint Peters.

 

After learning of the preseason rankings, Iona Head Coach Fernando Barbato said, “We have worked extremely hard during are preseason preparations, and feel that as the season progresses we will continue to goals.” Barbato also had a  message to the fans. 

Barbato said the team’s final goal is to be undefeated at home. “Our fans, and the students at Iona deserve to have a soccer team they feel proud of,” he said.

Helping out Barbato’s cause this year will be having a large portion of his squad returning for this season.

This starts with sophomore Samuel Adjei, the only Iona player who was selected to the preseason All-MAAC team.

Last year, Adjei scored a team-high five goals, which led the Gaels in goals scored.

With those five goals, three of which were game winners, he led the Gaels to victory.

Other key players will also return to the Gaels. These players include (but are not limited to) the following: sophomore Franklin Castellanos, junior Douglas Stephens and co–captain and senior Adam Rohan.

“Being favored to win the MAAC is a great honor and responsibility and something that we know we can do. My motivation has always been my parents, my brother and end.”

The Gaels won their 2011 season opener 2-0 against Hofstra on Aug. 26.

Iona’s first match at home will take place on Sept. 21 against Adelphi.