The Valdosta State University Blazers soccer team has been a force to be reckoned with in the Gulf South Conference, consistently producing talented teams that compete at a high level. As a proud member of the NCAA Division II, the Blazers have built a reputation for their exciting brand of soccer and commitment to developing student-athletes who excel both on and off the field.
The Blazers' home stadium, Bazemore-Hyder Stadium, has been a fortress for the team, with a seating capacity of over 11,000 and state-of-the-art facilities that provide an electrifying atmosphere for players and fans alike. With a rich history of success, the Blazers have won several conference championships and have appeared in the NCAA tournament multiple times.
History of the Valdosta State University Blazers Soccer Team
The Valdosta State University Blazers soccer team was established in 1974, and since then, the program has experienced its fair share of highs and lows. However, the team has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, producing talented players who have gone on to compete at the professional level.
Under the guidance of head coach, Graham Warne, the Blazers have become a dominant force in the Gulf South Conference, winning multiple conference championships and appearing in the NCAA tournament on several occasions. The team's success has been built on a foundation of strong defense, creative midfield play, and clinical finishing.
Notable Players and Coaches
The Valdosta State University Blazers soccer team has produced several notable players who have gone on to compete at the professional level. Some of the most notable players include:
- Austin Maner: A midfielder who played for the Blazers from 2011 to 2014, Maner was a two-time Gulf South Conference Player of the Year and was drafted by the MLS's Columbus Crew in 2015.
- Ian McMahon: A defender who played for the Blazers from 2012 to 2015, McMahon was a two-time Gulf South Conference Defender of the Year and was signed by the USL's Tulsa Roughnecks in 2016.
- Matthew Deluca: A midfielder who played for the Blazers from 2013 to 2016, Deluca was a Gulf South Conference Player of the Year in 2016 and was signed by the USL's Arizona United in 2017.
As for coaches, Graham Warne has been instrumental in the team's success, leading the Blazers to multiple conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances during his tenure.
Conference Championships
The Valdosta State University Blazers soccer team has won several conference championships, including:
- 2011: Gulf South Conference Tournament Champions
- 2012: Gulf South Conference Regular Season Champions
- 2015: Gulf South Conference Tournament Champions
- 2017: Gulf South Conference Regular Season Champions
Facilities and Equipment
The Valdosta State University Blazers soccer team has access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, including:
- Bazemore-Hyder Stadium: The Blazers' home stadium has a seating capacity of over 11,000 and features a natural grass playing surface.
- Soccer Training Facility: The team's training facility features a synthetic turf playing surface and is equipped with state-of-the-art training equipment.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
The Valdosta State University Blazers soccer team offers scholarships and financial aid to talented student-athletes. The team's scholarship program is designed to provide financial assistance to players who demonstrate a strong commitment to academics and athletics.
Alumni and Community Engagement
The Valdosta State University Blazers soccer team has a strong alumni network, with many former players going on to successful careers in soccer and other fields. The team also engages with the local community through various outreach programs and events.
Valdosta State University Blazers Soccer Team Schedule
The Valdosta State University Blazers soccer team competes in the Gulf South Conference and has a busy schedule of games and tournaments throughout the year. Fans can stay up-to-date with the team's schedule by visiting the university's athletic website.
Valdosta State University Blazers Soccer Team Roster
The Valdosta State University Blazers soccer team has a talented roster of players, including:
- Goalkeepers: Alex Hernandez, Michael Lopez
- Defenders: Ian McMahon, Matthew Deluca, Austin Maner
- Midfielders: Graham Warne, Carlos Garcia, Kevin Garcia
- Forwards: Daniel Deluca, Mario Deluca, Juan Hernandez
Valdosta State University Blazers Soccer Team Statistics
The Valdosta State University Blazers soccer team has a strong record of success, with a winning percentage of over 70% in conference games. The team has also produced several players who have gone on to compete at the professional level.
Conclusion
The Valdosta State University Blazers soccer team has a rich history of success and a strong commitment to developing student-athletes who excel both on and off the field. With a talented roster of players and a busy schedule of games and tournaments, the team is always looking for new and exciting ways to engage with fans and the local community.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive guide to the Valdosta State University Blazers soccer team. Whether you're a fan of the team or just interested in learning more about college soccer, we encourage you to share this article with others and to follow the team's progress throughout the season.
What is the Valdosta State University Blazers soccer team's record in conference games?
+The Valdosta State University Blazers soccer team has a winning percentage of over 70% in conference games.
Who is the head coach of the Valdosta State University Blazers soccer team?
+The head coach of the Valdosta State University Blazers soccer team is Graham Warne.
What is the name of the Valdosta State University Blazers soccer team's home stadium?
+The Valdosta State University Blazers soccer team's home stadium is called Bazemore-Hyder Stadium.