The 2009 season looks to be a promising one for the men's soccer team at the University of Rochester. Coming off a 14-3-2 campaign in 2008, back-to-back conference championships, and a fourth consecutive NCAA tournament appearance, the Yellowjackets have lofty expectations. With the loss of only four seniors and an incoming class of ten promising freshmen, the 'Jackets have experience, talent and determination.

Goalkeepers

Back-to-back First Team All-UAA keeper and captain Michael Peacock returns for his senior year in net for the 'Jackets. Peacock has been the starter for the past two seasons, keeping a 0.51 goals against average. This year will also see the return of senior goalkeeper Brandon Campbell. He is an imposing figure at 6'7”, a strong shot stopper and he always steps up when needed. New arrivals in goal are freshmen Joe Osborn and Scott Garfing. Joe has good size, strong hands, and his aggressiveness will surely help him in goal. Scott brings tons of potential to the table, and with his work rate and tall frame he should prove to be a contributor to the team in the future.

Defenders

In the back this year for the Jackets, we see several returners along with a few new faces. Senior Phil Proud, along with junior Misha Carrel-Thomas will offer leadership and experience at the back. Both are returning starters from last year's team that only gave up 10 goals in 19 games. Rising sophomores Doug Clift, Alex Osuch and Justin Bartzsch will have plenty of opportunity to make a statement this year. All three possess athleticism and technical ability. Incoming freshman Ben Clifford, Andrew Roberts, Jakob Seidlitz, and John Ward are all quality defenders from strong club programs who should fight for time and gain valuable experience this year.

Midfielders

The Yellowjacket midfield looks extremely promising in 2009. With the return of wide midfielders Steven Welles, Jake Cargill and Timmer McCarthy, there is sure to be plenty of one versus one play and dangerous crosses coming from the flanks. Steven Gillmer is a talented wide midfield option who had a break-out spring season. Another veteran is junior Jimmy Parrinello, who controlled the middle of the park last season for the 'Jackets. Sophomores Tom Sorrentino and Scott Zorn will look to contribute in the midfield as well. Both bring vision, passing ability and work rate to the table. Chris Blivin looks to get into the mix as a dangerous attacking midfield option this year. Sean Coyne, Jacob Findlay, Dan Battelle and Brian Knouse are all excellent new-comers who will look to make an impact.

Forwards

This season Rochester returns plenty of fire power up front. Returning are seniors J.J. Dennstedt (All-American) and Scott Cady. Together they combined for 14 goals and 5 assists last year. Rochester also sees the return of sophomore Josh Richards, who made a huge impact as a freshman. Redshirt freshman Max Eberhardt returns from an injury that sidelined him last season. Max is eager to get back on the field and he will definitely look to make his presence known up top.