The Lassen Community College’s 2012 men’s soccer team poses for a picture before a team meeting Tuesday, Aug. 7. This year’s team will feature more than 60 players from all over the world. Photo by DJ Estacio

Aug. 16, 2012 — The Lassen Community College (LCC) men’s soccer team is geared up to make a run at this year’s national championship for the collegiate season.

Practices will begin for the Cougars Wednesday, Aug. 15 at Riverside Park.

They will be heading to Lake Tahoe to play in a preseason tournament.

Their first game will be played against Fresno City College, a team who finished last year’s season ranked eighth in the nation.

“This year I have set up a very, very tough preseason schedule,” said Ben Wade, head coach for the Cougars. “If we want to be the best, we have to play the best. I know that this team has it in them to make it to the top. Hard work and dedication will get this team as far as they want to go this season.”

This year’s soccer team is made up of 60 players coming from all over the world.

“Most of the team is made up of international soccer players,” said Wade. “The international talent pool nowadays is insane, and I love being able to get players to come to Susanville that have never been to the states.”

The team has players from several different countries. England, Scotland, Brazil and Germany are the main countries Wade recruits players from, and that’s where he received most of his players this year.

“I think the way that coach Wade has put this team together is really smart,” said Kane Manning, of England. “With so many players being on the team, there is going to be so much competition. Which can only be healthy for us because if we want to win, we have to have people pushing us to strive for the best everyday. I am looking forward to a great season, and hopefully a run at the National Championship.”

David Delsimone is the only player from Susanville on the team this year.

“I am so excited for this season,” said captain Gabriel Colombo, who is one of the many players from Brazil. “This year’s team is already looking better than last. Their desire to win is obvious. I love how they have that championship mentality. Come support us, as you watch us march into national recognition.”

Wade said to expect a lot bigger things than last year’s team, which finished the season ranked 18th in the nation and went as high as eighth. “The difference between this year’s team and last year’s is the depth we have at each position. As well as the size, speed and the great set of goalkeepers that were picked up. I’m really looking forward to an outstanding year,” he said.

The Cougars only have four home games this year, with their first not being until Oct. 2.

“I think that the avid soccer fans should really come out and watch this team,” said Connor McGrotty, of Scotland. “There is such a wide variety of nationalities on this team and so many athletic and amazing athletes. This team is going to be one to watch out for and I look forward to seeing how the season turns out.”