The Louisville men’s soccer team takes the field against Providence Thursday at 7 p.m. for a first-round game in the Big East tournament, after the schedule was reshuffled following last week’s snow storm on the east coast.
Yes, this year’s season has not lived up to expectations. But those lofty expectations would not exist had this group not been the core of a team that reached the College Cup final last fall. They are:
- Colin Rolfe, perhaps the best player ever to wear a UofL jersey. The dangerous striker is a two-time All-American, repeat all-everything in the Big East, a two-time Herman Trophy nominee as the best college player, the first Herman finalist ever at UofL, and, despite struggling with injuries this year, still the heart of the Cards attack.
- Andre Boudreaux. At 5-11, he’s considered undersized for a top-shelf goalkeeper, but he makes up for it with quickness and a great feel for the game. Holds the school record with 35 shutouts and counting.
- Austin Berry. Almost never out of position, he’s the Cards’ most reliable defender who has ably succeeded the graduated J.T Murray as leader of the back line. A second-team All-American last year, he’s also a danger to score with his head on corners and other set pieces.
- Kenny Walker. A versatile player who can fill in almost anywhere, Walker has been invaluable this year as the Cards have struggled with injuries to key players. He has an absolute bomb of an outside shot.
- Nick DeLeon. He made an immediate impact after transferring from UNLV last year. A threat on the flanks, DeLeon also can create space for himself in the middle, and has scored some highlight-reel goals as a result.
- Mark Knight. Came back for another season after what should have been his final year was derailed by an early injury. Has been an able spot starter and sub at the striker position, both when Rolfe has been hurt and in tandem with his fellow senior.
- Jimmy Crick. The only local product (St. X) among the seniors, Crick has been a solid role player in the midfield, seeing action mostly off the bench. He’s an excellent student, winning the award for the highest cumulative GPA among players at the College Cup last year.
Coach Ken Lolla has a formidable task ahead of him in replacing this group, particularly those five core starters. They are, after all, among the players who helped him lift the Louisville Cardinals into college soccer’s elite. They deserve our appreciation.