TIFFIN, Ohio -- After a shortened 2020-21 season, the Heidelberg University men's soccer team will begin its 2021 campaign at Defiance College on Wednesday. The Student Princes will be returning to Hidden Valley Soccer Complex after playing exclusively on the turf of Hoernemann Stadium last spring. 

THE COACHES:
Nick Spell, now Heidelberg's Director of Soccer, will take the reins of the men's soccer team in 2021 after leading the women's program for the past 15 seasons. Josh Wates returns as a graduate assistant coach for his second season. 

THE SCHEDULE: 
The Student Princes begin their season with three straight away games. Heidelberg will play its first game in Hidden Valley on September 10 against Trine. Conference play begins with two home games against Wilmington and Capital. Senior Day is scheduled for October 27 against John Carroll University with the final game of the regular season taking place the following Saturday at Muskingum.

THE ROSTER: 
Kelly Itito returns to the midfield after earning All-OAC honorable mention status for the shortened 2020-21 season. Itito started all nine games in the spring and spent over 650 minutes on the field for the Student Princes. 

Spencer Tredwell will anchor the Heidelberg back line. The senior from Franklin Michigan played 719 minutes and scored a goal last season. Jarod Chavez also returns to the defensive lineup after being absent from the roster last spring. The senior scored two goals and started 15-of-16 games in his junior campaign. 

In the box, Sigurd Ilestad transitions from forward back to goalie for the 2021 season. 

QUOTES FROM SPELL:
"We are excited to play a full season this fall and showcase the talent this team possesses.  This team has been through a lot the last year and we are ready to move forward in a big and positive way.  There is great energy around this team and I feel blessed to lead this group of young men."

HOW TO FOLLOW
BergAthletics.com will have up-to-the minute information on schedule cancelations and alterations all season long.  Additionally, links for live video and live stats will be published as they become available.