*Story by Ellen Nilback
WILMINGTON, Ohio - The Wilmington College men's soccer team hosts Heidelberg University in a long-awaited 2021 spring season opener on Sunday. Kickoff from Williams Stadium is scheduled for 2 p.m.
The Teams: Wilmington and Heidelberg. The Fightin' Quakers finished their 2019 season 10-7-2 overall and 3-5-1 in the OAC to miss out on the OAC Tournament by a single game for the second consecutive season. The Student Princes finished their 2019 season with a 4-12-1 overall and 2-7 in the OAC.
The Coaches: Alex Van der Sluijs is in his third year leading Wilmington's men's soccer team. The 2007 alumnus, who was a three-time First Team All-OAC selection and a member of the program's only team to win an OAC title in 2004, worked at Defiance College for seven seasons. Pat Svihlik, the Walsh University graduate, is starting his fifth season as the Heidelberg men's soccer head coach.
The Players: Ian Molfenter led the Quakers in goals last season with a total of 11 goals, seven of which were scored in OAC competition. Zach Burgmeier and Elorm Dogbey were both consistent scorers for the Fightin' Quakers last season with nine goals each. Burgmeier also recorded a team-high six assists during the 2019 season. Felix Maurer is another key player returning for the 2021 season as he recorded a .762 saving percentage with 48 shots with five shutouts. Sigurd Ilestad, a returner for Heidelberg, was one of the Student Princes' leading scorers last season with three goals, all scored in OAC play.
OAC Fan Policy: The OAC President's Council has updated its spectator policy to allow two individuals per student-athlete to attend home contests.
Series History: Wilmington is 3-5-2 against Heidelberg since 1993. The Fightin' Quakers won the last game against the Student Princes. More information on the series history can be viewed by visitng the link above.
Coverage: Live statistics and live video of the contest will be available – visit the links above.
Social Media: Follow Wilmington athletics on social media! The Fightin' Quakers have a presence on Facebook (Wilmington College Athletics) as well as Twitter and Instagram (@DubCQuakers).
Up Next: The Quakers will host Muskingum University for a 7 p.m. contest on Thursday.
