Saint John's University Soccer: A Battle to the End

As we approach the final stretch of our MIAC season, the situation couldn’t be more clear-cut. With a current record of 5-6-1, we find ourselves needing to win all three of our remaining fixtures to keep any hope of securing a playoff spot alive. Our upcoming matches—against St. Scholastica, St. Olaf, and Carleton—will be no walk in the park, but we have full confidence in our side’s ability and determination to get the job done.

The disappointment of our recent 3-2 defeat to Bethel has passed. Despite performing at a high level, we allowed three soft goals which ultimately cost us the game. It’s a result that stings, but one we must swiftly move beyond if we’re to achieve what we’ve set out to do. The lads have the talent—now it’s a matter of finding that belief and mental toughness that separates good teams from great ones.

Adversity is part and parcel of football. It’s in these moments of challenge that character is revealed. It would be all too easy to succumb to frustration or to feel hard done by, but that’s not the mindset we’ll adopt. Instead, we’ll embrace this adversity, using it to harden our resolve and make us stronger. Mental fortitude will be key, and it’s something we’ll need to show in abundance as we head into these crucial final games.

The truth is the lads have given their all throughout the season. There have been some great performances, some poor performances and some narrow misses, but no one can question the commitment or the effort that’s been on display. Now, we need to turn that effort into results. With three matches left, our destiny is still very much in our own hands. If we maintain our focus, keep our confidence high, and fight for every inch on the pitch, we’ve got every chance of making it to the playoffs.

We believe in this team. I believe in this team. Now it’s time to show everyone else what Saint John's University soccer is made of.

Coach Noel Quinn