In 2005, the UW men's soccer team burst out of the gate, winning three of their first four matches. Unfortunately for the Badgers, the next month would bring only one victory in nine contests. Six of the losses came by only one goal and three times UW lost in overtime.
Four games into their 2006 season, the Badgers once again have a 3-1 record, but if their recent victories stand as any indication, history will not repeat itself.
After losing the season opener to Southern Methodist University, the men in cardinal and white have posted three consecutive shutouts and outscored opponents 11-0.
""We've executed on both sides of the ball,"" head coach Jeff Rohrman said. ""You take our preseason games into account and we've given up one goal in six games.""
Rohrman particularly praised the play of senior goalkeeper Jake Settle.
""He's made great saves,"" Rohrman said. ""His communication is very good and when he does that, he organizes us.""
Despite his personal feats, Settle said he has not set any personal goals for himself. ""As long as you set team goals, then the personal goals kind of come,"" he said. ""If we win games, then that's fine.""
UW returns 19 of its 20 letter-winners from 2005. This unique arrangement gives the Badgers a mix of senior leaders and experienced young talent.
""We've upped the level in terms of ability and consistency, but at the same time we've added some guys who have given us some great depth,"" Rohrman said.
According to Rohrman, freshman forward Eric Conklin and freshman midfielder Scott Lorenz have both been key contributors early in the season.
Sophomore Zack Lambo, another young gun in coach Rohrman's arsenal, tallied UW's lone goal in a victory over Lipscomb.
Meanwhile, sophomore sensation Victor Diaz looks to build off of his 2005 campaign in which he led the Badgers in scoring and earned a spot on the Big Ten All-Freshman team.
Although the Badgers offensive firepower and stingy defense have helped them earn three victories, Settle recognized that UW's improved chemistry has also played a major factor in their success.
""We're all definitely on the same page and we all have the same goals in mind,"" Settle said. ""We all like each other because we've been around each other for two years and didn't lose anybody.""
According to Rohrman, senior leadership will also help UW this season.
""I think, more than anything the team has matured,"" he said. ""You've got eight guys who are on their last leg of college soccer and they're really poised and determined to go out the right way.""
Yes, these seniors are looking to go out the right way in 2006. Who knows? Maybe they will create a little history of their own in the process.
