I wanted to take the time and some editorial space to congratulate a team and thank some individuals who otherwise would not receive the public recognition that they deserve. The Notre Dame community should be notified that the Notre Dame Men’s Club Soccer team appeared in their first ever regional tournament this past weekend. Competing in the Midwest Alliance Soccer Conference, this club team competes against some of the toughest men’s collegiate club soccer programs in the country. Qualifying for the regional tournament is no small task. To do so, the club team must earn results against division opponents who consistently qualify for both the regional and national tournaments. In reality, the buildup to the club team’s first ever qualification for regionals has lasted over five years, beginning with the club’s creation in the spring of 2012. As a member of the team since the fall of 2014, qualifying for regionals has been an overarching but unachievable goal. That remains the case no longer. I need to thank several individuals who helped make this goal an achievable reality. First, I am indebted to the leaders of the team that came before me, particularly Brian Roddy, Ryan Bonner and Joe Grady, all of whom in their own way prepared me to help this team accomplish its goals. Second, I am forever grateful to my parents who have provided advice when needed, support always, and their joy in every endeavor I have set out to accomplish. Third and finally, I want to thank this year’s members of the Notre Dame Men’s Club Soccer team. Gentlemen, without you, we couldn’t have accomplished what we achieved this fall. This was the season long hoped for by myself and members of the team both past and present. I know my expectations and demands were often more than anticipated. But, you ran the race and conducted yourself in a disciplined, professional and excellent manner. Congratulations, you earned it. Stay hungry, stay humble and get back to regionals. Thank you, God Bless and Go Irish.
Jack Kill president Notre Dame Men’s Club Soccer
