Oswego State – The Oswego State men’s soccer team looks to continue climbing upward to success from last year’s record (5-11-2, 3-5-1 in SUNYAC) after going winless in 2013. Behind transfer Todd Lawson in the net, Oswego looks to remain tough on defense and hopefully improve on a season that only saw them score 13 goals. With only a handful of seniors, expect a big season out of the Class of 2017 and for players from that bunch to emerge as leaders on both offense and defense.

William Paterson – After having a few tumultuous years, William Paterson ended last year on a high note, finishing with a 9-8-3 record. However, the Pioneers are losing their leading scorer from last year, Marcus Hackett and will have to find replacements for their aggressive offense that took 328 shots last year. With a solid mix of both underclassmen and upperclassmen, they will maintain their identity in attacking defenses again this year in hopes of repeating last year’s success, or even improving upon it.

SUNY Canton – The Lakers’ opponent, SUNY Canton, looks to finally breakthrough in the SUNYAC this year. Canton has a .500 record combined for the last three seasons and, although consistent, hopes to break the mediocre trend and do it early this season. With a small number of upperclassmen, the Kangaroos will have to rely heavily on their first and second year players to set the tone early and have some unexpected players come up big, especially in the goal.

Houghton College – The youngest soccer program in this tournament, Houghton College looks to extend in its program’s early success and continue to make a name for themselves. With an offense that focuses on giving everyone touches and playing conservatively, they hope to continue to keep their contests low scoring with their stout defense and returning goalie Jacob Dunned. The Highlanders juxtapose their opening opponent, William Paterson, perfectly in what should be a game of two teams with separate, but concrete, philosophies.