Men’s soccer team looks to veterans for leadership in upcoming season
By Kate Barringer, sports information intern
September 1, 2005
The Beavers return key players and add some new talent to the 2005 men’s soccer squad. After losing six seniors and adding eight freshmen, head coach Steve Smucker looks to improve his 3-13 overall record from last year.
“This year the training has been more focused,” Smucker said. “The four seniors are going to bring accountability and discipline to the squad.”
Smucker stresses to his team to play with integrity by making good choices both on and off the field. It is also vital to work as hard as they can and deal with mistakes on the field in a positive manner. The off season training started last November with indoor soccer, weight training and a summer program.
A catalyst for the Beavers is top-scorer Justin Rohrer (Millersburg/West 
Holmes), a junior, who will look to add to his 10 points and four goals from last season into the mix. Another key returner is junior goalkeeper Ryan Thomas (Jamestown/Greenview) who has grown as a player over his last two years. Thomas posted 94 total saves last season as he was instrumental in keeping opponents balls out of the goal. Bluffton will also look to seniors David Lanka (Plain City/Jonathan Alder) and Thomas Dunn (Dalton/Central Christian) for leadership.
“Team defense will be a key to our success. We must be compressed and organized,” Smucker said. “We also will look to improve our organization on set pieces and incorporate the talents of our new athletes to improve our finishing.”
