2019 Cougars Season Ends Strong

The 2019 campaign for the Clinton Community College Men's Soccer team was a step in the right direction. The Cougars posted a 6-10 record and just missed the final spot in the NJCAA Region III Playoffs. After a tough start to the season facing multiple nationally ranked teams, the Cougars posted a 4-2 record in their last 6 games. "I knew by the way our schedule was set up, that the opening half of the season was going to be tough" said first year Head Coach Keagen Briggs.  "I kept stressing to the guys that we just had to keep developing and at some point in the season things will start to click." said Briggs. 

The Cougars had many close games that could have swayed the season, including an 1-0 overtime loss against Jamestown CC, a 2-1 defeat against Hudson Valley CC, and a 1-0 defeat to Fulton-Montgomery CC. "We had a few games that with a little more maturity, and focus really would have changed the course of our season." added Briggs. There were many positive takeaways from the season Briggs adds " I was very proud that we posted a positive record at home going 4-3, as well as the four game win streak we went on in October." As mentioned, the Cougars won four games straight, 3 of which were overtime victories! 

In their first collegiate seasons, Alex Chapman (four goals, three assists) and Andrew Follmer (four goals, two assists) led the Cougars in points this season. "I thought Andrew, and Alex both had good seasons. I am excited for another year with them because I think they both have another level they can get to." said Briggs. Second year captain Logan Julian was named Team MVP as voted by the players, Briggs commented on the award saying " Very well deserved, Logan has been nothing but spectacular for us this year. His IQ of the game is second to none. He logged a lot of minutes for us this year, regularly having to go a full 90 minutes in the central midfield. His presence in the midfield will be missed dearly next year." The Cougars also say goodbye to second year players Tom Kimbler, Pat Polnisek, Nick Shantie, Kyle Vassar, and Kyle Cahoon.

Coach Briggs has high expectations for next year "I already can't wait to get going next year. Having guys returning that have played for me, and know what my demands and expectations are is huge. I think a lot of guys are up for the challenge, and will be ready to go come preseason next year." The Cougars finished with their second best record since 2011, only behind the 2012 Cougars who recorded a impressive 13-6-1 record.