Photo by: Brent Hugo
Men's Soccer's eight seniors reflect on careers ahead of Wednesday's Senior Night
11/5/2019 10:46:00 AM | Men's Soccer
BETHLEHEM, Pa. — On Wednesday night during halftime of Lehigh men's soccer's matchup vs. Bucknell, the eight members of the team's senior class will be recognized at midfield for their accomplishments to the program and to the university.
All eight student-athletes have made significant contributions to the team in one way or another, some making important strides on the field and all contributing to the betterment of the team in training, on the sidelines or off the field and in the Lehigh community.
Of these eight include two former All-Patriot League selections, team leaders, academic standouts, Patriot League record-holders and the last remaining player from Lehigh's 2015 Patriot League Championship team.
Lehighsports.com caught up with the eight seniors ahead of Wednesday's Senior Night.
#0 Ian Marshall – Goalkeeper – Roswell, Ga. – Finance
What's your favorite Lehigh Men's Soccer memory up until this point? Why?
IM: Definitely plenty to choose from, but one of the first things that pops into my mind would be a host dinner that I did during our trip to France freshman year. It stands out because it gave me a peek into what the French countryside was like – far removed for the touristy places we had visited up to that point. I had a three-course meal over four hours and spoke to my host in French the entire time, so it really made me feel completely immersed in the culture. I still can't believe I was able to experience such a once in a lifetime trip and hope I can go back someday.
Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
IM: My relationship with the other seniors can be described in multiple ways such as roommates, classmates, and teammates. But above of all that, they're my best friends. Going from trekking through orientation together as wide-eyed freshmen to now getting prepped to be "real adults" is a surreal experience, and I'm glad I've gotten to spend it with such a great group of guys.
Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
IM: It doesn't feel real, and I don't think it will hit me until I actually walk out at halftime. I was told during my first week here that the time would fly by, and that's certainly held true. As I'm nearing the end of my career, the best word to describe how I feel would be thankful. Not only for the friends I've made and coaching I've received, but also for the little things like the places I've traveled and lessons I've learned. Playing soccer for the past 17 years has taught me more about myself than I could've ever imagined, and I'm excited to take those lessons and translate them into my professional life.
What will you miss most about Lehigh Men's Soccer?
IM: The therapeutic aspect of it. There could be a day where I had a rough exam or got shelled on a presentation, but once I would head to the locker room and see Ikem Mbalewe's dancing, all of that stress would be alleviated. One question I always get from family members is how I'm able to balance soccer with school, but honestly, soccer is a release from academics more than anything. I don't see it as another obligation in my schedule – rather it's the best part of my day where I can forget about all the negatives going on around me. So who knows what I'll do once that part of my schedule is cleared up… wouldn't be surprised if I try to sneak into a few spring sessions.
How proud are you of the strides the Lehigh Men's Soccer program has taken and continues to take?
IM: Incredibly. The best part about my class' journey is that every year has improved upon on the previous one. Our freshmen year we didn't make playoffs, followed by quarterfinals sophomore year, semifinals the year after that, and now we have the opportunity to secure the top seed heading into the tournament. I think it's a testament to our resilience and adaptability, and shows that the program as a whole is consistently innovating the way we choose to set ourselves up for success. I see plenty of upward potential after I'm gone, and hope that I've been enough of a mentor to some of the younger guys so they can capitalize on it.
What's something you can thank the coaching staff for teaching you during your four years at Lehigh?
IM: Self-awareness. In club soccer, I played all but ten games in the seven years leading up to college (for a grand total of about 200 games). I didn't have a backup most of the time, and never really felt pressure to improve out of fear of losing my spot. So when I went into an environment where I knew I wouldn't see nearly as many minutes, I was forced to take a step back and look at what I needed to improve in order to succeed. I think the coaches always did a great job of making it clear what they were looking for and subsequently where you fit into their assessment of it.
What are your postgraduate plans?
IM: I am currently choosing between offers, but know for certain that I will be going into a consulting role in New York City.
#1 Will Smith – Goalkeeper – Devon, Pa. – Finance
What's your favorite Lehigh Men's Soccer memory up until this point? Why?
WS: My favorite Lehigh Soccer memory was our trip to France freshman year as it allowed me to get closer with my teammates, get experience playing at an extremely high level and visit Europe which I had yet to do.
Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
WS: It is safe for me to say that I can call the rest of my senior class my brothers. We have been putting blood sweat and tears into this team together for four years now grinding and pushing each other every day. On top of athletics, off the field they are my best friends and I am very blessed to have gotten to go through all of this with them.
Describe the feeling going into Senior Night. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
WS: It has yet to sink in fully what Senior Night means as I am going into this game thinking about how we can put ourselves in a position to best further our season and not as much about my season ending. However, I know that the number of matches left in the game of soccer that I have grown to love and been playing since a kid is dwindling and although it is bitter to think about it ending, I will value each remaining game to the maximum potential.
What will you miss most about Lehigh Men's Soccer?
WS: I will miss having the ability to play the sport I love with my closest friends every day.
How proud are you of the strides the Lehigh Men's Soccer program has taken and continues to take?
WS: I am very proud of how the team in my eyes has matured over my four years here. We not only have created a much better team chemistry on and off the field, but also worked hard on the things we struggled with in the past in order to be a better team each and every year.
What's something you can thank the coaching staff for teaching you during your four years at Lehigh?
WS: I would like to thank the coaches first and foremost for seeing the potential in me and recruiting me to this amazing school. I would also like to thank them for being a committed, caring, open-minded group that has helped pave the way for me to grow and develop into the player and person I am today.
What are your postgraduate plans?
WS: My post graduate plans are to work in the field of investment management like my father.
#3 Alex Greene – Midfielder – Flower Mound, Texas – Computer Science
What's your favorite Lehigh Men's Soccer memory up until this point? Why?
AG: Winning the PLC during my freshman year is my favorite memory. It was so rewarding to have all the effort we put in every day pay off. We were the underdogs and the road to be champions was difficult. We surprised everyone and beat a tough American team. Winning it my freshman year made it even more special.
Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
AG: We are a close group of guys. We have supported each other through good and bad times, and we have formed bonds that will continue after Lehigh.
Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
AG: The days are counting down and it's sad to think that this might be the last time I get to play at such a high level. It would be great to end my collegiate career with another championship.
What will you miss most about Lehigh Men's Soccer?
AG: I will miss playing soccer every day with my closest friends. Whenever I was having a bad day, I would go to practice and would leave in a much better mood.
How proud are you of the strides the Lehigh Men's Soccer program has taken and continues to take?
AG: I'm very proud of the Lehigh Men's Soccer program. Lehigh has become one of the best teams in the Patriot League, and it has been able to maintain its competitiveness year after year. I'm sure it will continue to do so.
What's something you can thank the coaching staff for teaching you during your four years at Lehigh?
AG: I'd like to thank my coaches for teaching me how I can be an effective leader. Despite not having much of a vocal presence, I have learned to lead by my actions.
What are your postgraduate plans?
AG: After Lehigh, I plan on getting a job in the software development industry and to continue playing soccer as much as I can.
#4 Zarin Tuten – Defender – Round Rock, Texas – Finance
What's your favorite Lehigh Men's Soccer memory up until this point? Why?
ZT: It's really difficult to put my finger on one specific memory. We have made the semifinals in the tournament, I have scored a few goals and we have collected a lot of shutouts.
But honestly, nothing can top the moments you have in practice when you and your friends doing the activity you love most. Hopefully the best moment is still yet to come in the next few weeks as we chase a Patriot League title.
Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
ZT: Personally, I was homeschooled all of high school and going through a move to a completely different part of the country where you don't know anyone seemed a daunting challenge. Each one of the guys in my class went through it as well and we helped each other along the way. For the past four years, we have all lived with or near each other. We are a tight-knit class that hopefully will continue to get closer after soccer ends in the next few weeks.
Describe the feeling going into Senior Night. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
ZT: It's hard to come to grips with the fact its ending. I have been playing soccer since I was three years old and my whole way of life up to this point has revolved around the sport. However, none of this would have been possible without my dad. He has been there for me giving me the best opportunities available since the day I said I want to play soccer. He would drive me hours to practice so that I could train with the best teams. My dad has been my biggest motivator and fan through it all. I cannot thank him enough for all the sacrifices he made.
What will you miss most about Lehigh Men's Soccer?
ZT: I will miss the sense of belonging and brotherhood it provided from the first day I set foot on campus. Each and every one of the guys I have had the honor of playing with here is someone I consider a friend. I could call any of the graduated guys or guys younger than me and right away they would be there for me. The community is very tight knit and something that will not end when I finish the soccer portion of my life.
How proud are you of the strides the Lehigh Men's Soccer program has taken and continues to take?
ZT: My freshman year, the team had an underwhelming year coming off the previous season's Patriot League Championship. It was a good learning experience in the sense that winning in Division I soccer is less about how skillful you are and more about how badly you want it. And on any given day, a less technical team can beat their opponent if they want it more.
While we are not usually the lesser skilled team, we have created a culture of being gritty and hard-working in every position and embodied a mentality of being underdogs. And every year since I was a sophomore, Lehigh soccer has consistently had a winning season. This is the new standard for the program, and I know it will continue after my class is gone because the guys below us are all very talented individuals that knows what it takes to win.
What's something you can thank the coaching staff for teaching you during your four years at Lehigh?
ZT: The coaches really helped me transition from an egocentric mentality I had when I arrived on campus to a mentality that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. While I have been extremely lucky to play the bulk of the minutes in my four years, they have continued to preach you have to rely on others and cannot to attempt to accomplish everything both on and off the field by yourself. And I feel this is a really important skill to have for the working world I am about to enter where all projects are completed in groups.
What are your postgraduate plans?
ZT: Next year I will be working in New York City for KPMG in Deal Advisory performing financial due diligence and accounting advisory services.
#13 Nolan Coulter – Defender – Charleston, S.C. – Finance
What's your favorite Lehigh Men's Soccer memory up until this point? Why?
NC: My favorite memory so far has been our trip to France my freshman year. We were lucky enough to be able to play in the professional stadium in Le Havre and explore Paris while we were there. The trip was my first time traveling to Europe and the experience was one I'll never forget.
Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
NC: Our senior class is a tight group that has been through a lot together. Since the beginning of freshman year, we've had each other's backs on and off the field. I know I'll always be able to count on the other seniors beyond graduation.
Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
NC: As we go into Senior Day, it's hard to believe that my soccer career is coming to an end after 17 years. Although my senior season was cut short because of an injury, I can still look back and leave Lehigh proud of what I have accomplished on and off the field. The last goal left to accomplish is to win a Patriot League title.
What will you miss most about Lehigh Men's Soccer?
NC: I will miss being around the team every day the most. Being able to hang around 30 of your closest friends every day and play the game you love is something I will never have the opportunity to do again. I could tell how close the team was from the very first time I visited Lehigh in high school, and that bond is what kept me here at Lehigh all four years.
How proud are you of the strides the Lehigh Men's Soccer program has taken and continues to take?
NC: I'm extremely proud of how far the program has come since I've been here. My freshman year we didn't even qualify for the Patriot League Tournament, and this year we are in contention to finish the regular season as the No. 1 overall seed. Every year we've gotten one step closer to the Patriot League Championship, and I think this year we are the most complete team we've had in my four years.
What's something you can thank the coaching staff for teaching you during your four years at Lehigh?
NC: One of the biggest lessons the coaching staff has taught me these past four years is the importance of personal responsibility. A lot of times in soccer it's easy to blame outside factors like the referees, coaches, or teammates for your own personal shortcomings and mistakes. I've learned that if you aren't satisfied with your current situation, only you can do something to change it and this is a lesson that I know will translate into other areas of my life as I graduate and enter into the business world.
What are your postgraduate plans?
NC: Following graduation, I plan to work in the finance industry in either New York City or back in Charleston.
#17 Tommy Dokho – Forward – Royal Oak, Mich. – Supply Chain Management
What's your favorite Lehigh Men's Soccer memory up until this point? Why?
TD: My favorite Lehigh Men's soccer memory to date is getting the opportunity to fly to Chicago with the team and compete against two really good Big Ten soccer teams, as well as coming out of that weekend beating Northwestern 2-0.
Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
TD: The relationship I have with my fellow seniors is very close-knit. I've been living with Nolan (Coulter) since freshmen year as well as Will (Smith) since my sophomore year. Even though I don't live with the other seniors, we still all see each other every day and hangout on the weekends. Couldn't have asked for a better group of guys to spend my four years with.
Describe the feeling going into Senior Night. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
TD: There are a lot of thoughts going through my head as Senior Night is approaching. It is definitely a bittersweet feeling because I am excited to get into the business world and get my career started, but the fact I won't be playing soccer at this high of a level again really stings. I've been playing soccer since such a young age and, of course, I still plan to keep playing in men's leagues wherever I end up when my Lehigh playing days are over.
What will you miss most about Lehigh Men's Soccer?
TD: The thing I will miss the most about Lehigh men's soccer is the family like culture. I think of every single player on this team as a brother, I would do anything for them and I know they would do anything for me too. From day one on this team, everyone was extremely accepting and I know my relationship with these guys will extend far beyond Lehigh for many years to come.
How proud are you of the strides the Lehigh Men's Soccer program has taken and continues to take?
TD: I am so proud to have been a part of this program. My freshmen year we only won five games and from that point forward we have made playoffs every single year, including this year already. This program has been, and will continue to keep moving in the right direction and I am thankful to have been involved in the growth this program has seen over the last four years.
What's something you can thank the coaching staff for teaching you during your four years at Lehigh?
TD: The coaches have taught me the importance of having a team-first attitude. How the success of the team is always more important than the success of any individual on the team. This lesson is not only important in sports, but will also be valuable in the business world.
What are your postgraduate plans?
TD: My post-graduate plans are still up in the air. I plan to keep searching for jobs within the Business and Supply Chain Management fields.
#21 Matthew Peralta – Defender – Weston, Fla. – Journalism
What's your favorite Lehigh Men's Soccer memory up until this point? Why?
MP: I've enjoyed special moments all throughout my time on the team, but the most recent qualifying moment occurred earlier this year when I realized I was no longer the worst disc golfer on the team. Disc golf had been a foreign subject to me before my freshman year, and I learned how bad I was pretty quickly. I shot +15 last time around, a clear improvement from my first +35 ever-exhausting spell. It was also fun being around the newer guys and doing something we weren't used to doing together.
Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
MP: Each guy is weird in their own way and I've come to appreciate that over the years. Sure, we get competitive, even with each other, but there's still that glimmer of personality that remains off the field and it's what lets you get over any argument or altercation quickly. We're a class that has embraced changes to our class and our team and has uncompromisingly put in work over the years.
Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
MP: Freshman year is just a memory away, it's a wild thing to be closing in on the last season of play with the guys that came in with for my first. The team has changed a lot since my freshman year, but so has our class. It's nice to feel that we each serve as motivation for each other and that, despite all the work we've put in throughout the years, most of us still have the same desire that we came in with; to play the game.
What will you miss most about Lehigh Men's Soccer?
MP: Nothing beats crossing the line with the guys you're closest to. Either for the beep test, 300 test, mile and a half or 94 second drills. Nothing will replace collectively embracing the struggles we choose to go through as a team. You're always wanting more time, I think.
How proud are you of the strides the Lehigh Men's Soccer program has taken and continues to take?
MP: It's one thing to recognize growth and it's another to be a part of it. The guys on the team are aware of the success we've had, but what makes the difference is that we're all bought into the work we've had to put in from the trying days of preseason to now. Real recognizes real. We all have and give that acknowledgement to every guy on the team, as well as to those that have come before us.
What's something you can thank the coaching staff for teaching you during your four years at Lehigh?
MP: Every member of the coaching staff understands that soccer is dependent on people. Apart from their understanding of the game and how they view players and the team in respect to that, the coaches make sure to establish connections with every player on a human level. Every guy on the team continues their development during their time at Lehigh. The coaches are aware of that and besides being soccer players, we're all kids to some degree. They know we don't have it all figured out, they even admit to not having the solutions to every problem themselves, but they still find a way to guide us through our foggy times. And that's a great thing, to know that it's ok to be lost every now and then.
They do a good job with that and being transparent about it. I think that's what has led to the mounting success of the program.
The entire coaching staff is a group that's dedicated to the success of our team and their curiosity about finding new ways of structuring a team that's built for adversity has made all the difference. I learned that in my first year at Lehigh. I remember sitting in Coach Koski's office for one of the first few scheduled meetings. He drew a circle on the white board and then outlined a slice that was about 25% of the circle. He then outlined another, smaller, slice within that 25% of the pie chart. Coach Koski labeled the smallest section as the collection of everything he knew. The other small slice he labeled, the things he knew he didn't know. That left the rest of the pie chart. What remained is the percentage of what he said he didn't know he didn't know. Coach Koski noted that understanding was a recursive process. Whenever you come to understand something, you usually become aware of the extent of that understanding, and then of how much else you don't even know you don't understand. I think it's a great mentality to have in a coaching position, especially with a sport as evolving and popularizing as soccer. They're a great group of people, and it's a nice thing to have them around as often as I do. Their work has served as an encouragement to reach out at life and grab at it, even when you're unsure of what you'll get a hold of.
What are your postgraduate plans?
MP: I'm not entirely sure, and I'm ok with that. I could be going into reporting or publishing in either the U.S. or Latin America. Or I could end up doing something totally different. I feel excitement though, so I'm ready to ride on that.
Alec Koski – Student Coach/Team Manager – Bethlehem, Pa. – Sociology & Anthropology
What's your favorite Lehigh Men's Soccer memory up until this point? Why?
AK: Our trip to Chicago this year was an amazing experience. We played two quality Big Ten teams and got to explore one of the world's greatest cities. And the fact that I got to do this with my best friends makes it even better. Hopefully there are even more memories on the way.
Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
AK: They best way to describe our relationship is family. My classmates are some of the funniest and coolest people I've ever met, and hopefully we'll be friends for the rest of our lives.
Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
AK: It's kind of bittersweet. Having not played in college, I have a bit of a different feeling than the rest of the guys, but nonetheless it's definitely going to feel weird not going to practice on Kaufman every day or going on road trips once a week. I'm excited to see what the future has in store for all of us, but I'm sad this chapter has to end.
What will you miss most about Lehigh Men's Soccer?
AK: I'm definitely going to miss the sense of brotherhood that I've felt during my last four years. Everyone always had each other's backs and competed for the guy next to them, regardless of their role on the team.
How proud are you of the strides the Lehigh Men's Soccer program has taken and continues to take?
AK: Going from our freshman year where we just barely missed the playoffs, to now competing for the number one overall seed is an amazing thing to be a part of. It's sometimes tough to see the growth on a daily basis but looking back this program has made great strides year after year.
What's something you can thank the coaching staff for teaching you during your four years at Lehigh?
AK: Thank you for treating me as a valued member of the program and making sure I held myself accountable day in and day out. Thank you for always making sure I was included in anything we did and making me feel like a player in so many regards, which absolutely didn't go unnoticed. I've learned numerous things from each coach and will take those lessons with me as I graduate.
What are your postgraduate plans?
AK: I plan to pursue a career in soccer, whether that's through coaching, team administration, or front office work.
All eight student-athletes have made significant contributions to the team in one way or another, some making important strides on the field and all contributing to the betterment of the team in training, on the sidelines or off the field and in the Lehigh community.
Of these eight include two former All-Patriot League selections, team leaders, academic standouts, Patriot League record-holders and the last remaining player from Lehigh's 2015 Patriot League Championship team.
Lehighsports.com caught up with the eight seniors ahead of Wednesday's Senior Night.
#0 Ian Marshall – Goalkeeper – Roswell, Ga. – Finance
What's your favorite Lehigh Men's Soccer memory up until this point? Why?
IM: Definitely plenty to choose from, but one of the first things that pops into my mind would be a host dinner that I did during our trip to France freshman year. It stands out because it gave me a peek into what the French countryside was like – far removed for the touristy places we had visited up to that point. I had a three-course meal over four hours and spoke to my host in French the entire time, so it really made me feel completely immersed in the culture. I still can't believe I was able to experience such a once in a lifetime trip and hope I can go back someday.
Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
IM: My relationship with the other seniors can be described in multiple ways such as roommates, classmates, and teammates. But above of all that, they're my best friends. Going from trekking through orientation together as wide-eyed freshmen to now getting prepped to be "real adults" is a surreal experience, and I'm glad I've gotten to spend it with such a great group of guys.
Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
IM: It doesn't feel real, and I don't think it will hit me until I actually walk out at halftime. I was told during my first week here that the time would fly by, and that's certainly held true. As I'm nearing the end of my career, the best word to describe how I feel would be thankful. Not only for the friends I've made and coaching I've received, but also for the little things like the places I've traveled and lessons I've learned. Playing soccer for the past 17 years has taught me more about myself than I could've ever imagined, and I'm excited to take those lessons and translate them into my professional life.
What will you miss most about Lehigh Men's Soccer?
IM: The therapeutic aspect of it. There could be a day where I had a rough exam or got shelled on a presentation, but once I would head to the locker room and see Ikem Mbalewe's dancing, all of that stress would be alleviated. One question I always get from family members is how I'm able to balance soccer with school, but honestly, soccer is a release from academics more than anything. I don't see it as another obligation in my schedule – rather it's the best part of my day where I can forget about all the negatives going on around me. So who knows what I'll do once that part of my schedule is cleared up… wouldn't be surprised if I try to sneak into a few spring sessions.
How proud are you of the strides the Lehigh Men's Soccer program has taken and continues to take?
IM: Incredibly. The best part about my class' journey is that every year has improved upon on the previous one. Our freshmen year we didn't make playoffs, followed by quarterfinals sophomore year, semifinals the year after that, and now we have the opportunity to secure the top seed heading into the tournament. I think it's a testament to our resilience and adaptability, and shows that the program as a whole is consistently innovating the way we choose to set ourselves up for success. I see plenty of upward potential after I'm gone, and hope that I've been enough of a mentor to some of the younger guys so they can capitalize on it.
What's something you can thank the coaching staff for teaching you during your four years at Lehigh?
IM: Self-awareness. In club soccer, I played all but ten games in the seven years leading up to college (for a grand total of about 200 games). I didn't have a backup most of the time, and never really felt pressure to improve out of fear of losing my spot. So when I went into an environment where I knew I wouldn't see nearly as many minutes, I was forced to take a step back and look at what I needed to improve in order to succeed. I think the coaches always did a great job of making it clear what they were looking for and subsequently where you fit into their assessment of it.
What are your postgraduate plans?
IM: I am currently choosing between offers, but know for certain that I will be going into a consulting role in New York City.
#1 Will Smith – Goalkeeper – Devon, Pa. – Finance
What's your favorite Lehigh Men's Soccer memory up until this point? Why?
WS: My favorite Lehigh Soccer memory was our trip to France freshman year as it allowed me to get closer with my teammates, get experience playing at an extremely high level and visit Europe which I had yet to do.
Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
WS: It is safe for me to say that I can call the rest of my senior class my brothers. We have been putting blood sweat and tears into this team together for four years now grinding and pushing each other every day. On top of athletics, off the field they are my best friends and I am very blessed to have gotten to go through all of this with them.
Describe the feeling going into Senior Night. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
WS: It has yet to sink in fully what Senior Night means as I am going into this game thinking about how we can put ourselves in a position to best further our season and not as much about my season ending. However, I know that the number of matches left in the game of soccer that I have grown to love and been playing since a kid is dwindling and although it is bitter to think about it ending, I will value each remaining game to the maximum potential.
What will you miss most about Lehigh Men's Soccer?
WS: I will miss having the ability to play the sport I love with my closest friends every day.
How proud are you of the strides the Lehigh Men's Soccer program has taken and continues to take?
WS: I am very proud of how the team in my eyes has matured over my four years here. We not only have created a much better team chemistry on and off the field, but also worked hard on the things we struggled with in the past in order to be a better team each and every year.
What's something you can thank the coaching staff for teaching you during your four years at Lehigh?
WS: I would like to thank the coaches first and foremost for seeing the potential in me and recruiting me to this amazing school. I would also like to thank them for being a committed, caring, open-minded group that has helped pave the way for me to grow and develop into the player and person I am today.
What are your postgraduate plans?
WS: My post graduate plans are to work in the field of investment management like my father.
#3 Alex Greene – Midfielder – Flower Mound, Texas – Computer Science
What's your favorite Lehigh Men's Soccer memory up until this point? Why?
AG: Winning the PLC during my freshman year is my favorite memory. It was so rewarding to have all the effort we put in every day pay off. We were the underdogs and the road to be champions was difficult. We surprised everyone and beat a tough American team. Winning it my freshman year made it even more special.
Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
AG: We are a close group of guys. We have supported each other through good and bad times, and we have formed bonds that will continue after Lehigh.
Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
AG: The days are counting down and it's sad to think that this might be the last time I get to play at such a high level. It would be great to end my collegiate career with another championship.
What will you miss most about Lehigh Men's Soccer?
AG: I will miss playing soccer every day with my closest friends. Whenever I was having a bad day, I would go to practice and would leave in a much better mood.
How proud are you of the strides the Lehigh Men's Soccer program has taken and continues to take?
AG: I'm very proud of the Lehigh Men's Soccer program. Lehigh has become one of the best teams in the Patriot League, and it has been able to maintain its competitiveness year after year. I'm sure it will continue to do so.
What's something you can thank the coaching staff for teaching you during your four years at Lehigh?
AG: I'd like to thank my coaches for teaching me how I can be an effective leader. Despite not having much of a vocal presence, I have learned to lead by my actions.
What are your postgraduate plans?
AG: After Lehigh, I plan on getting a job in the software development industry and to continue playing soccer as much as I can.
#4 Zarin Tuten – Defender – Round Rock, Texas – Finance
What's your favorite Lehigh Men's Soccer memory up until this point? Why?
ZT: It's really difficult to put my finger on one specific memory. We have made the semifinals in the tournament, I have scored a few goals and we have collected a lot of shutouts.
But honestly, nothing can top the moments you have in practice when you and your friends doing the activity you love most. Hopefully the best moment is still yet to come in the next few weeks as we chase a Patriot League title.
Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
ZT: Personally, I was homeschooled all of high school and going through a move to a completely different part of the country where you don't know anyone seemed a daunting challenge. Each one of the guys in my class went through it as well and we helped each other along the way. For the past four years, we have all lived with or near each other. We are a tight-knit class that hopefully will continue to get closer after soccer ends in the next few weeks.
Describe the feeling going into Senior Night. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
ZT: It's hard to come to grips with the fact its ending. I have been playing soccer since I was three years old and my whole way of life up to this point has revolved around the sport. However, none of this would have been possible without my dad. He has been there for me giving me the best opportunities available since the day I said I want to play soccer. He would drive me hours to practice so that I could train with the best teams. My dad has been my biggest motivator and fan through it all. I cannot thank him enough for all the sacrifices he made.
What will you miss most about Lehigh Men's Soccer?
ZT: I will miss the sense of belonging and brotherhood it provided from the first day I set foot on campus. Each and every one of the guys I have had the honor of playing with here is someone I consider a friend. I could call any of the graduated guys or guys younger than me and right away they would be there for me. The community is very tight knit and something that will not end when I finish the soccer portion of my life.
How proud are you of the strides the Lehigh Men's Soccer program has taken and continues to take?
ZT: My freshman year, the team had an underwhelming year coming off the previous season's Patriot League Championship. It was a good learning experience in the sense that winning in Division I soccer is less about how skillful you are and more about how badly you want it. And on any given day, a less technical team can beat their opponent if they want it more.
While we are not usually the lesser skilled team, we have created a culture of being gritty and hard-working in every position and embodied a mentality of being underdogs. And every year since I was a sophomore, Lehigh soccer has consistently had a winning season. This is the new standard for the program, and I know it will continue after my class is gone because the guys below us are all very talented individuals that knows what it takes to win.
What's something you can thank the coaching staff for teaching you during your four years at Lehigh?
ZT: The coaches really helped me transition from an egocentric mentality I had when I arrived on campus to a mentality that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. While I have been extremely lucky to play the bulk of the minutes in my four years, they have continued to preach you have to rely on others and cannot to attempt to accomplish everything both on and off the field by yourself. And I feel this is a really important skill to have for the working world I am about to enter where all projects are completed in groups.
What are your postgraduate plans?
ZT: Next year I will be working in New York City for KPMG in Deal Advisory performing financial due diligence and accounting advisory services.
#13 Nolan Coulter – Defender – Charleston, S.C. – Finance
What's your favorite Lehigh Men's Soccer memory up until this point? Why?
NC: My favorite memory so far has been our trip to France my freshman year. We were lucky enough to be able to play in the professional stadium in Le Havre and explore Paris while we were there. The trip was my first time traveling to Europe and the experience was one I'll never forget.
Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
NC: Our senior class is a tight group that has been through a lot together. Since the beginning of freshman year, we've had each other's backs on and off the field. I know I'll always be able to count on the other seniors beyond graduation.
Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
NC: As we go into Senior Day, it's hard to believe that my soccer career is coming to an end after 17 years. Although my senior season was cut short because of an injury, I can still look back and leave Lehigh proud of what I have accomplished on and off the field. The last goal left to accomplish is to win a Patriot League title.
What will you miss most about Lehigh Men's Soccer?
NC: I will miss being around the team every day the most. Being able to hang around 30 of your closest friends every day and play the game you love is something I will never have the opportunity to do again. I could tell how close the team was from the very first time I visited Lehigh in high school, and that bond is what kept me here at Lehigh all four years.
How proud are you of the strides the Lehigh Men's Soccer program has taken and continues to take?
NC: I'm extremely proud of how far the program has come since I've been here. My freshman year we didn't even qualify for the Patriot League Tournament, and this year we are in contention to finish the regular season as the No. 1 overall seed. Every year we've gotten one step closer to the Patriot League Championship, and I think this year we are the most complete team we've had in my four years.
What's something you can thank the coaching staff for teaching you during your four years at Lehigh?
NC: One of the biggest lessons the coaching staff has taught me these past four years is the importance of personal responsibility. A lot of times in soccer it's easy to blame outside factors like the referees, coaches, or teammates for your own personal shortcomings and mistakes. I've learned that if you aren't satisfied with your current situation, only you can do something to change it and this is a lesson that I know will translate into other areas of my life as I graduate and enter into the business world.
What are your postgraduate plans?
NC: Following graduation, I plan to work in the finance industry in either New York City or back in Charleston.
#17 Tommy Dokho – Forward – Royal Oak, Mich. – Supply Chain Management
What's your favorite Lehigh Men's Soccer memory up until this point? Why?
TD: My favorite Lehigh Men's soccer memory to date is getting the opportunity to fly to Chicago with the team and compete against two really good Big Ten soccer teams, as well as coming out of that weekend beating Northwestern 2-0.
Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
TD: The relationship I have with my fellow seniors is very close-knit. I've been living with Nolan (Coulter) since freshmen year as well as Will (Smith) since my sophomore year. Even though I don't live with the other seniors, we still all see each other every day and hangout on the weekends. Couldn't have asked for a better group of guys to spend my four years with.
Describe the feeling going into Senior Night. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
TD: There are a lot of thoughts going through my head as Senior Night is approaching. It is definitely a bittersweet feeling because I am excited to get into the business world and get my career started, but the fact I won't be playing soccer at this high of a level again really stings. I've been playing soccer since such a young age and, of course, I still plan to keep playing in men's leagues wherever I end up when my Lehigh playing days are over.
What will you miss most about Lehigh Men's Soccer?
TD: The thing I will miss the most about Lehigh men's soccer is the family like culture. I think of every single player on this team as a brother, I would do anything for them and I know they would do anything for me too. From day one on this team, everyone was extremely accepting and I know my relationship with these guys will extend far beyond Lehigh for many years to come.
How proud are you of the strides the Lehigh Men's Soccer program has taken and continues to take?
TD: I am so proud to have been a part of this program. My freshmen year we only won five games and from that point forward we have made playoffs every single year, including this year already. This program has been, and will continue to keep moving in the right direction and I am thankful to have been involved in the growth this program has seen over the last four years.
What's something you can thank the coaching staff for teaching you during your four years at Lehigh?
TD: The coaches have taught me the importance of having a team-first attitude. How the success of the team is always more important than the success of any individual on the team. This lesson is not only important in sports, but will also be valuable in the business world.
What are your postgraduate plans?
TD: My post-graduate plans are still up in the air. I plan to keep searching for jobs within the Business and Supply Chain Management fields.
#21 Matthew Peralta – Defender – Weston, Fla. – Journalism
What's your favorite Lehigh Men's Soccer memory up until this point? Why?
MP: I've enjoyed special moments all throughout my time on the team, but the most recent qualifying moment occurred earlier this year when I realized I was no longer the worst disc golfer on the team. Disc golf had been a foreign subject to me before my freshman year, and I learned how bad I was pretty quickly. I shot +15 last time around, a clear improvement from my first +35 ever-exhausting spell. It was also fun being around the newer guys and doing something we weren't used to doing together.
Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
MP: Each guy is weird in their own way and I've come to appreciate that over the years. Sure, we get competitive, even with each other, but there's still that glimmer of personality that remains off the field and it's what lets you get over any argument or altercation quickly. We're a class that has embraced changes to our class and our team and has uncompromisingly put in work over the years.
Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
MP: Freshman year is just a memory away, it's a wild thing to be closing in on the last season of play with the guys that came in with for my first. The team has changed a lot since my freshman year, but so has our class. It's nice to feel that we each serve as motivation for each other and that, despite all the work we've put in throughout the years, most of us still have the same desire that we came in with; to play the game.
What will you miss most about Lehigh Men's Soccer?
MP: Nothing beats crossing the line with the guys you're closest to. Either for the beep test, 300 test, mile and a half or 94 second drills. Nothing will replace collectively embracing the struggles we choose to go through as a team. You're always wanting more time, I think.
How proud are you of the strides the Lehigh Men's Soccer program has taken and continues to take?
MP: It's one thing to recognize growth and it's another to be a part of it. The guys on the team are aware of the success we've had, but what makes the difference is that we're all bought into the work we've had to put in from the trying days of preseason to now. Real recognizes real. We all have and give that acknowledgement to every guy on the team, as well as to those that have come before us.
What's something you can thank the coaching staff for teaching you during your four years at Lehigh?
MP: Every member of the coaching staff understands that soccer is dependent on people. Apart from their understanding of the game and how they view players and the team in respect to that, the coaches make sure to establish connections with every player on a human level. Every guy on the team continues their development during their time at Lehigh. The coaches are aware of that and besides being soccer players, we're all kids to some degree. They know we don't have it all figured out, they even admit to not having the solutions to every problem themselves, but they still find a way to guide us through our foggy times. And that's a great thing, to know that it's ok to be lost every now and then.
They do a good job with that and being transparent about it. I think that's what has led to the mounting success of the program.
The entire coaching staff is a group that's dedicated to the success of our team and their curiosity about finding new ways of structuring a team that's built for adversity has made all the difference. I learned that in my first year at Lehigh. I remember sitting in Coach Koski's office for one of the first few scheduled meetings. He drew a circle on the white board and then outlined a slice that was about 25% of the circle. He then outlined another, smaller, slice within that 25% of the pie chart. Coach Koski labeled the smallest section as the collection of everything he knew. The other small slice he labeled, the things he knew he didn't know. That left the rest of the pie chart. What remained is the percentage of what he said he didn't know he didn't know. Coach Koski noted that understanding was a recursive process. Whenever you come to understand something, you usually become aware of the extent of that understanding, and then of how much else you don't even know you don't understand. I think it's a great mentality to have in a coaching position, especially with a sport as evolving and popularizing as soccer. They're a great group of people, and it's a nice thing to have them around as often as I do. Their work has served as an encouragement to reach out at life and grab at it, even when you're unsure of what you'll get a hold of.
What are your postgraduate plans?
MP: I'm not entirely sure, and I'm ok with that. I could be going into reporting or publishing in either the U.S. or Latin America. Or I could end up doing something totally different. I feel excitement though, so I'm ready to ride on that.
Alec Koski – Student Coach/Team Manager – Bethlehem, Pa. – Sociology & Anthropology
What's your favorite Lehigh Men's Soccer memory up until this point? Why?
AK: Our trip to Chicago this year was an amazing experience. We played two quality Big Ten teams and got to explore one of the world's greatest cities. And the fact that I got to do this with my best friends makes it even better. Hopefully there are even more memories on the way.
Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
AK: They best way to describe our relationship is family. My classmates are some of the funniest and coolest people I've ever met, and hopefully we'll be friends for the rest of our lives.
Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
AK: It's kind of bittersweet. Having not played in college, I have a bit of a different feeling than the rest of the guys, but nonetheless it's definitely going to feel weird not going to practice on Kaufman every day or going on road trips once a week. I'm excited to see what the future has in store for all of us, but I'm sad this chapter has to end.
What will you miss most about Lehigh Men's Soccer?
AK: I'm definitely going to miss the sense of brotherhood that I've felt during my last four years. Everyone always had each other's backs and competed for the guy next to them, regardless of their role on the team.
How proud are you of the strides the Lehigh Men's Soccer program has taken and continues to take?
AK: Going from our freshman year where we just barely missed the playoffs, to now competing for the number one overall seed is an amazing thing to be a part of. It's sometimes tough to see the growth on a daily basis but looking back this program has made great strides year after year.
What's something you can thank the coaching staff for teaching you during your four years at Lehigh?
AK: Thank you for treating me as a valued member of the program and making sure I held myself accountable day in and day out. Thank you for always making sure I was included in anything we did and making me feel like a player in so many regards, which absolutely didn't go unnoticed. I've learned numerous things from each coach and will take those lessons with me as I graduate.
What are your postgraduate plans?
AK: I plan to pursue a career in soccer, whether that's through coaching, team administration, or front office work.
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/ Men's Soccer2025 Lehigh Men's Soccer Season Preview
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Lehigh Sports Central: Men's Soccer
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Season Preview: Men's Soccer
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