Aug. 31, 2010

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MEMPHIS, Tenn. - The 2010 season kicks off Wednesday night at 7 p.m. for the University of Memphis' men's soccer team, as they host Belmont at the Mike Rose Soccer Complex.

The men's team enters this season with 11 newcomers added to a squad that finished 7-7-2 in 2009. Freshmen Maxim Van Dyck, Will Garcia and Austin Gross, along with junior transfer Tiago Reichert are expected to contribute right away, beginning with the Bruins on Wednesday.

Although they've been in the program for a while, several players with limited playing time on their resumes' are expected to provide a lift for the Tigers in 2010. Redshirt freshman Mark Sherrod, who missed 2009 due to injury, will make his regular-season debut against the Bruins. Redshirt sophomore Jordan Leedle will make the start in goal against Belmont after playing in only one match in his first two seasons in Memphis. Senior and former walk-on Eric Trujillo will provide depth in the midfield for the Tigers.

Among the returners are leading scorer Parker Duncan and 2009 Conference USA all-freshman team members Andreas Guentner, who will miss the match against Belmont due to suspension, and JJ Greer. Center defenders Thomas Shannon and Rory O'Connor started in 2009 and will provide experience to a youthful backline this season.

The Bruins, coming off a disappointing 3-13-3 2009 campaign, return perennial all-conference star Brandon Tarr and 2009 second-leading scorer Will Moorad to a stout offensive attack. Veteran coach Earle Davidson will have his squad ready to give the Tigers everything they can handle in the season-opener.

Live Stats, Live Chat and streaming video will be available during the match. Tickets will be sold at Mike Rose; admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children 5-12 years old. All children under 5 get in free.