The Simon Fraser University men’s soccer team is at the top of preseason polls for a fourth consecutive season.
The No. 3-nationally ranked Clan received seven of the eight first-place votes in a Great Northwest conference coaches’ poll.
Conference rival Seattle Pacific was the only other team to receive a first-place vote in the polling.
SFU is coming off its second consecutive semifinal finish at the NCAA Division championships.
The SFU program also sports an impressive record in conference play, losing just four matches in 48 played since its inaugural Great Northwest conference season in 2010.
Four-time coach of the year Alan Koch will have eight returning starters in the lineup, including last season’s conference newcomer of the year Magnus Kirstensen and defender of the year Alex Rowley. Senior Jovan Blagojevic, who was second in the Great Northwest in goals scored, is also returning.
Last year, the Clan led the nation with 211 total points and confernece record 77 goals. SFU was also second overall in scoring offence and total assists.
The Clan opened its season schedule on Thursday at home against Sonoma State (after NOWdeadlines).
SFU will also host Hawaii Hilo on Tuesday, Sept. 9 at Terry Fox Field at 7:30 p.m.
The Clan women open their soccer season with the first of a two-game set against Hawaii Hilo on Sunday at Terry Fox. Game 2 is scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 9.
Kick off for both games is scheduled for 5 p.m.
