MEN’S SOCCER

With a core of young players and experienced leaders returning, Ithaca looks to find its way back to the NCAA tournament for the ninth time. The Bombers made their 13th postseason appearance in the last 15 seasons.

Heading the list of returning players is senior goalkeeper Chris Lucci. He posted an 8-5-1 record last season with a 0.72 GAA. His 47 saves and .825 save percentage led the team. Senior Matt Deskiewicz saw time in four games and compiled a 1-2 record with a 1.35 GAA. He recorded 12 saves and an .805 save percentage. The two combined for seven shutouts and held opponents to an average of 0.9 goals per game. Helping anchor the defense will be junior back Todd McCormick, who started every game last season.

Seniors Joao Valerio and Ryan Mooney, junior Christian Stoehr, and sophomore Matt Panella are veterans in Ithaca’s midfield. Junior Wade Wilkinson (20 points in 1998), is the team’s leading returning scorer. Senior Jason Asci, junior Shaun Leska, and sophomore Tom Ciolek were key starters last season.

Photo: Chris Lucci (1). Photo by Tim McKinney.