Soccer programs rank among nation's best statistically

Men had third best winning percentage; women were second most improved

Staff Report

The NCAA has released its final statistics for the 2003 Division II men’s and women’s soccer season, and UNC Pembroke managed to find its way into seven different categories. With five rankings in men’s soccer and two in women’s soccer, the recognition is well-deserving for the two squads, who each turned in the best seasons of their respective histories.

Coach Mike Schaeffer’s Braves compiled a 17-1-2 record this season and received their first-ever bid to the NCAA tournament. The .900 winning percentage is not only the best ever for UNCP, but it was third best in the nation behind national champion Lynn University and Truman. UNCP’s men were also ranked sixth in both scoring offense (72 goals/3.60 per game) and goals-against average (16 goals allowed/0.77 allowed per game).

Individually, Sascha Gorres was second-best nationally in assists per game (1.0 per game). His 19 total assists shattered the UNCP record of 11 previously held by Avery Croteau and Chris Little.

And for the second time, goalie Alex Hall finds his name among the nation’s best keepers. Hall was ranked twelfth in goals-against average in 18 games played (15 goals allowed/.855 allowed pergame).

Not only did the UNCP men find success, but Coach Lars Andersson’s Lady Braves also turned in some impressive numbers.

Like the men, the women were also ranked sixth in goals-against average (16 goals allowed/0.77 allowed per game). The Lady Braves also put together the eighth most prolific scoring offense in the nation (63 goals scored/3.50 per game).

Additionally, Andersson’s squad was the second most improved team in the nation with a 13-5 record following a 4-11-4 season in 2002. UNCP was edged out by St. Leo University in the top spot.

Congratulations to both squads and their coaches for continuing the proud tradition of UNCP athletics and the Peach Belt Conference.

- Provided by UNCP Sports Information.