Ever since I can remember I have known exactly what has been going on within Johnnie Soccer. Pops brought home every result, but he also shared the narrative surrounding the simple score line. Being on the inside made our 1986 and 1989 NCAA Elite Eight runs infinitely more compelling to me than Kirby and the Twins notching a couple World Series titles. To be fair, though, I do still have a Homer Hanky.
A few of my fellow SJU coaches have started blogs to loop in those connected to their programs. This got me thinking that the inside view I have had for all of these years was incredibly unique and that it fueled my passion for Johnnie Soccer. It is unique but it does not need to be a secret…I am truly looking forward to sharing that Johnnie Soccer experience with you and making it more accessible to all of our alums, fans, families, and recruits.
Here is what you can expect from this blog:
Program updates and insider info: During the season I’ll fire off a weekly message that will allow you a window into the experience within Johnnie Soccer behind and beyond the box score. My hope is that this will take black and white scores and fill them in with color and nuance. In the off-season there will be fewer posts, but I will still work to keep you updated regarding recruiting, spring season training, international trips, etc.
For instance, we had THIRTEEN quality recruits come for an overnight this past weekend. 13!
Student-Athlete Profiles: We have absolutely incredible young men in the soccer family…as we always have. I am certain that what they are able to achieve on the field will be more impressive when you see how well-rounded they truly are. Ultimately, I would love to foster interaction between our established alums/supporters and our current squad in hopes of generating networking opportunities as they transition from Collegeville to the real world. Johnnies help Johnnies!
Future direction, events, engagement: I will keep everyone in the know regarding events, fundraising efforts, and J-Club involvement.
The first announcement is that our Alumni Game is set for 2pm on Saturday, April 13th in our very own Skalicky Dome. This will be the first chance for the seniors to officially join the alums ranks. Save the date, I would love to see you there!
I am looking forward to this new endeavor. Always feel free to send me an email and ask me a question. Maybe I can incorporate your question or curiosities into my blog posts. My hopes are to make this a two-way conversation with all of you who play an important part in the Johnnie Soccer Family and Tradition. I hope you enjoy the blog. You can always reach me at jhaws@csbsju.edu or 320.492.5507.
OUR FAMILY vs. their team!