Indiana Wesleyan University Soccer Team Overview

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Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) is a private Christian university located in Marion, Indiana, United States. The university is known for its strong athletic programs, and one of its most popular teams is the Indiana Wesleyan University soccer team. In this article, we will provide an overview of the team, including its history, accomplishments, and current status.

History of the Indiana Wesleyan University Soccer Team

The Indiana Wesleyan University soccer team was established in the early 1980s, with the first game played in 1982. The team quickly gained popularity and became a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) in 1986. Over the years, the team has experienced its fair share of ups and downs, but it has consistently shown improvement and a commitment to excellence.

Accomplishments of the Indiana Wesleyan University Soccer Team

The Indiana Wesleyan University soccer team has achieved numerous accolades throughout its history. Some of its most notable accomplishments include:

• Winning the Mid-Central College Conference (MCCC) tournament championship in 2003 and 2007
• Appearing in the NAIA National Tournament in 2004, 2007, and 2011
• Being ranked as high as #15 in the NAIA national polls in 2011
• Producing several All-Americans, including David Rodriguez, who was named a First-Team All-American in 2011

Current Status of the Indiana Wesleyan University Soccer Team

The Indiana Wesleyan University soccer team currently competes in the Crossroads League, which is part of the NAIA. The team is led by head coach Kyle Schwarz, who has been at the helm since 2014. Under Schwarz's leadership, the team has experienced a resurgence in success, including a Crossroads League tournament championship in 2019.

Key Players and Coaching Staff

The Indiana Wesleyan University soccer team has a talented roster of players, including several key players who have made significant contributions to the team's success. Some of the key players include:

• Goalkeeper: Eric Steigerwald
• Defenders: Austin Olson, Ben Wiarda, and Tyler Murphy
• Midfielders: Noah Fazekas, Austin Wiarda, and Caleb Schwab
• Forwards: Trent Steigerwald and Zachary Norris

The coaching staff is led by head coach Kyle Schwarz, who is assisted by several experienced coaches, including:

• Assistant Coach: Nick Wallace
• Goalkeeper Coach: Alex Trout
• Strength and Conditioning Coach: Matt Savage

Facilities and Equipment

The Indiana Wesleyan University soccer team plays its home games at Wildcat Stadium, which is located on the university's campus. The stadium has a seating capacity of over 1,000 and features a state-of-the-art turf field.

The team also has access to a state-of-the-art training facility, which includes a weight room, athletic training room, and locker rooms. The team's equipment is provided by Adidas, and the players wear Adidas uniforms and cleats.

Community Involvement

The Indiana Wesleyan University soccer team is committed to giving back to the community. The team participates in several community outreach programs, including:

• Soccer camps and clinics for local youth
• Visits to local hospitals and nursing homes
• Participation in charity games and events

Conclusion

The Indiana Wesleyan University soccer team has a rich history and a strong commitment to excellence. With a talented roster of players, experienced coaching staff, and state-of-the-art facilities, the team is well-positioned for success in the years to come. Whether you're a current student, alumni, or just a fan of soccer, the Indiana Wesleyan University soccer team is definitely worth following.