The DePauw University men’s soccer team will add a reserve squad to the roster for the 2017-2018 season for the first time since 2015. It’s unsure exactly how many players will be on the squad. The schedule will consist of other reserve and university club teams around the area.
Head Coach Brad Hauter is excited about the change. He thinks it will add a greater dynamic to player development.
“It’ll present an avenue for guys who are not ready right now to be able to have a path to continue to develop,” Hauter said. “We can keep guys fit and sharp for the entire season and give younger players a place to grow. Two of our three captains in 2015, when we went to the Sweet Sixteen, began their careers on our reserve team. I have seen it produce high level players.”
Hauter also foresees possible movement between the reserve and first teams. “If we are being honest in our evaluations, the order of the team will be changing daily. I see reserve guys moving up and first team guys moving down,” Hauter said.
Even players are looking forward to the change. Senior Captain and midfielder, Taras Tataryn, thinks it could be really beneficial. “It should give younger guys or players on the fringe a chance to show Coach what they can do. If they are staying fit and getting good touches in they will be improving everyday,” Tataryn said. “I hope we can see some players really improve from it and maybe try to challenge for First team spots.”
Some players also think there is a lot to be gained from the addition of a reserve squad. "It should keep the training environment incredibly competitive while providing an opportunity for players to improve and recover at more effective rates," said senior forward Peter White.
Both Squads will get together this weekend to test out their game in scrimmages Friday and Sunday. On Aug. 25, the Tigers travel to Illinois Wesleyan University at 5 p.m. CDT and on Aug. 26 they host Principia College at Reavis Stadium at 2 p.m. EDT.
