Gold 2023 Season Preview: Newcomers for the Gopher's Top Squad
Coming off a historic season, the Gophers look to reload and hit new heights in 2023
One of many newcomers to the Gold squad, winger Henry Elias looks to be a difference maker on Gold in his sophomore season
*Photo credit Sam Rode
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Welcome back Gopher fans! The wait is finally over and college soccer season is once again upon us. Like every year, a lot of turnover and graduations means many newcomers to the Gold squad. Let's meet your new stars of Gopher soccer:
Assem Elsayad - Junior (W)
If this name seems familiar, Assem was previously with our Maroon team in 2021 before taking a hiatus from the Gophers last year. This season, he's back with Gold after an impressive tryout. Pacey, strong, and direct, Elsayad is a fantastic addition to Gold's attacking ranks.
Deq Jama - Freshman (FB/CB)
Jama was one of two freshman to make the Gold squad this year. Jama came in to tryouts and impressed with his defending and technical ability. Able to cover both fullback slots as well as center back, Jama brings welcome versatility to the back line.
Dylan Barrett - Junior (CM/FB)
Dylan joins us after a transfer from cross-town rivals St. Thomas. Technically sharp and a well-rounded player, Barrett brings heaps of energy and ability to play in center-mid or fullback.
Henry Elias - Sophomore (W)
Henry joins the Gold team after a standout Maroon season in 2022. A silky winger with outstanding drive and dribbling ability, Elias adds a dangerous offensive contribution to the Gold squad.
Jose Blanco - Sophomore (CDM)
Jose found his way straight to the Gold squad after an impressive tryout. Following a transfer from Elmhurst University, Blanco's quality was apparent as a tough-tackling center defensive mid. He brings much-desired stability to the base of this new-look Gopher midfield.
Ryan Everhart - Junior (GK)
Ryan makes the leap to Gold after two stellar seasons as Maroon's goalkeeper. A fantastic shot-stopper, Gold is blessed to keep their run of stud keepers alive.
Sol Lee - Freshman (CM)
Sol joins the Gold squad as our other distinguished freshman. Hailing from South Korea, Sol's quality was highly apparent in tryouts right away. A classy center mid, Sol brings fantastic passing range, awareness, and composure to the Gophers midfield.
Will Collins - Senior (W)
Maroon's captain last year steps up to the Gold squad for the 2023 season. An aggressive winger, Collins brings further forward drive and leadership to an already stacked Gopher front line.
Will Herbek - Junior (CB)
Herbek finds his way to the Gold squad following a strong 2022 campaign with Maroon. Pacey and smart in covering the defense, Herbek serves as an excellent newcomer to the heart of Gold's backline.
As some of you may have heard, there will be a new-look league that the Gophers will be competing in. Rather than playing league games over one weekend tournament formats, both Gold and Maroon have entered into the new Upper Midwest Collegiate Soccer League, where the Gophers will play a standard league table format with games roughly every weekend.
Gold's season begins on September 16th, which features a huge clash as the Gophers travel down to Ames to take on Iowa State in a classic league opener. Last years matchup saw Gold comfortably win with a 3-1 scoreline. The following day, Gold will stay in Ames to take on the Creighton Bluejays for the first time in school history. Gold's home opener is set for the following Saturday as they host Winona State for the first time in several years. As Gold begins the 2023 season with a preseason Region 5 ranking of #1, Gold will be expecting to bring home a league crown as they move towards regional play.
Stay tuned to our website and socials for all updates on our season!
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Ski-U-Mah!
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