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In print | Published December 4, 2008 — Updated December 05, 2008 10:04

To the Editor:

The men’s soccer team would like to thank all those students, faculty, and staff that helped make our past season so memorable. From decorations in the dining hall, to shirtless fans in 30 degree weather, all the support was absolutely amazing. Because of your support throughout the season, we were able to host the Centennial Conference playoffs. And in the final against Johns Hopkins you did not disappoint. With nearly 800 fans, you helped us win the first ever Centennial Conference Championship for men’s soccer. Not to mention, Swarthmore now holds the record for attendance at the conference finals.

The next weekend we had the opportunity to host the first and second rounds of the NCAA tournament, another Swarthmore milestone. Despite a torrential downpour, the stands were full as we overcame Rutgers-Camden on Saturday. Versus Dickinson on Sunday, a great crowd helped us reach the Sweet-16. Home field advantage was essential, and YOU made it happen. Again we were hosts, this time of the Sweet-16. Once more, your enthusiasm was incredible. There was a massive tailgate and 300 garnet t-shirts printed for our clash with Amherst. It was below freezing that night, but that didn’t stop nearly 800 fans from supporting Swarthmore athletics. We wish we could have earned a different result for you that night, but finishing the season at home with you was special. Particularly for the seniors, coming off the field to our family, our friends, our fans, was a moment we will never forget. For that we thank you.

There are some specific people to whom we would like to extend our gratitude. First, to the members of the athletic department who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure everything went smoothly. Adam Hertz, Christyn Chambers, Marian Fehy, and Sharon Green in the front office. Ray Scott and Larry Yannelli in the equipment room. The sports medicine staff, Allison Hudak, Marie Mancini, Jessica Quinn, Steph Bingham, and interns for keeping us healthy. Adam and Gwen for keeping us physically spry and mentally focused. And the Sports Information Office, including Kyle Leach, Lucy Foerster, and their staff for getting the word out and tackling all things media related. We would like to recognize the constant support of Professor Everson and his work as the team’s academic advisor. We would also like to thank Dean Elverson for providing advice and encouragement to the members of the team.

The Phoenix and Daily Gazette also covered the season exceptionally. Your reporting helped build interest in the season and it was wonderful to have stories to share with family and friends who could not experience the games first hand. SAAC (composed of a significant number of the softball team) worked tirelessly to make sure that our visiting opponents knew whose house they were entering.

From balloons, to posters, to cheering at the game, we would like to thank SAAC for all their work to make it a special season. Dining Services provided the fuel that kept us going for the whole season. In addition, they showed undeniable support throughout the year, culminating in signs and balloons throughout the dining hall. Thank you, Dining Services.

The Swarthmore Ville community has supported the men’s soccer program in many forms throughout the season and they never fail to bring a large contingent to the game. From the youth soccer teams, to an exceptionally passionate group of Strath Haven High School students, all of your support was greatly appreciated. The encouragement from the Alumni was critical. We began our season with a trip to South America in August and finished in late November at Clothier Field. They were with us the whole way, some often under the tree on the far corner of the field, always lending their voices to the cause. We are grateful for all you have done.

Lastly, we would like to thank again all the students, faculty, and staff. The appreciation we have for the constant encouragement at the game, in the classroom, and around campus is immeasurable. You helped make our season a success. We were proud to represent you on the soccer field and cannot wait until next season. We’ll see you there.

Jeff Kushner ’09

Dylan Langley ’10

Evan Nesterak ’09

Rory Stackpole ’09

On behalf of the men’s soccer team

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