RIPON, Wis. - The theme for the 2006 Ripon Men's Soccer team seems to be one of optimism and hope, and rightfully so. The Red Hawks are coming off a season that saw them finish third in the Midwest Conference with a 6-2-1 conference record. They also got a taste of the Midwest Conference Tournament, bowing out
3-2 in the semifinal round to Lawrence University. Last season's winning ways have carried over as the Red Hawks have a different mindset going into this season.

"They've tasted success, which means that their outlook and approach has changed this season where they now expect to be successful," head coach Todd Parker said. "It's making for a more competitive training environment, which will help us grow as a team."

After reaching the MWC Tournament for the first time in four years last season, the Red Hawks feel like they are primed to take the next step.

"I believe strongly in having goals and expectations, otherwise you don't know where you're going," Parker said. "We fully expect to win conference and go to the national tournament."

That statement is not too far-fetched, as the Red Hawks return every single starter from last season's squad, after losing just three players during the offseason. This year's team features eight seniors, all of whom are expected to contribute immensely.

"This is a very tight group of seniors who are all high quality players and are all very special. That will strenghthen their ability to lead as seniors," Parker said. "They have an ability to compete on a personal level, but are also very selfless, which is a unique blend to have in a group of players. That will only transfer to and help the younger guys."

As good as the seniors are, Ripon is fortunate enough to have a nice blend of older and younger kids.

"We have a group of sophomores that will be a big part of our team," Parker said. "The best players play, no matter what year they are in school, so everyone will have an opportunity to earn their spot and play a role on this team."

Five of Ripon's returning players were named to the All-Midwest team last season. Team Captain Price Ward (Oshkosh, Wis.) and David Freiselben (Waukesha, Wis.) were both named to the First-Team and enter their Senior season's on a mission.

"The team starts with Ward, who is a strong vocal leader and also leads by example. He has the unique ability to be phisical, while also being very shifty and fast on the ball," said Parker.

Ward put points on the board last season, finishing second on the team with five goals. Freiselben on the other hand, kept goals off the board. As the Goalkeeper, Freiselben recorded five shutouts last season and helped set the tone for the defense, making several spectacular plays.

"Freiselben is a wall in back. I believe in building foundation in the program out of the back, and that starts with the Goalkeeper," Parker said. "Some of the things he does are amazing. If you want to see a show just come out and see some of the saves he makes."

The three other All-Conference players from last season's team, were all named to the second team. Junior Pat Kerstein (Waukesha, Wis.) joined a pair of freshmen, including team scoring leader Pa Demba Camara (Sun Prairie, Wis.), and Kris Hanson (Oshkosh, Wis.) with the honor.

"Demba provides an incredible amount of problems for opposing teams. He's a matchup nightmare because he's 6-6, and possesses the rare blend of size and being able to be athletic enough to be a playmaker out of the midfield," Parker said.

Hanson and Kerstein will also play big roles once again this season.

Hanson's pace presents problems for opponents because he's a tough guy to get around and he's a tough guy to keep in front of you, while Kierstein is another vocal leader that is going to anchor our defense," Parker said.

The tight-knit Red Hawks have one goal in mind, getting to the National Tournament, and it all starts September 1st at Aurora University.

"This team comes to train hard every day and they leave it all on the field," Parker said. "They are truly a team and that's how you win championships."