Season Preview: Phantoms Looking Forward to Return to Soccer Field

(Delaware and Chester Counties, PA)- The Delaware County Community College men's soccer team will look to make a triumphant return to the field this season.

Due to the pandemic, the Phantoms last took the field for game action on October 26, 2019, so it will be 691 days between contests when they line up for the home opener on September 16th against visiting Bucks County Community College at 3:30 p.m.

Head Coach Fatoma Turay, who will make his DCCC coaching debut against Bucks, likes what he sees from his squad so far. "Things have been going well," shared Turay. "The commitment level from the guys has been tremendous."

Not one face remains from the 2019 squad that made the program's fourth straight postseason appearance. The brand new roster, complete with a new coaching staff, overflows with diversity, as the players and coaches hail from a combined seven countries and three states. All united essentially—despite their differences—by a ball.

And when it comes to that ball, Turay foresees lots of balls going into the net this season. "Going forward should be our main strength," offered Turay. "We have guys who can put the ball in the net."

Early season training has seen a handful of players distinguish themselves by their standout play, but when asked, Turay identified John Lenart as someone to keep an eye on as the 2021 campaign begins. "Johnny has been the most impressive especially from a technical standpoint," said Turay. Lenart, a native of Wallingford, Pa., authored a notable scholastic career at The Shipley School. The midfielder will now look to make an instant impact with the Phantoms.

Turay knows the season won't be without its challenges. "We are very thin at the back and in the middle," reflected the Sierra Leone native. "Hopefully we stay away from injuries during the season."

Yet, Turay is not allowing the possible challenges to temper his expectations. "We definitely want to get to the postseason and win a trophy," exclaimed the first-year head coach.

The journey to those goals starts Thursday afternoon.