CASTLETON, Vt. – The Vermont State University Castleton men's soccer team opens its 2023 campaign Friday in a non-conference clash in the Empire State against Sage.

The Spartans host 10 of their 18 scheduled contests, including key out-of-league matchups with Clarkson and Colby-Sawyer. The home opener at Dave Wolk Stadium on September 6 pits the Spartans with in-state foe VTSU Johnson, a duel that kick-starts a four-game home stand. Little East Conference action begins on September 16 as VTSU Castleton seeks revenge against Rhode Island College after the Anchormen upset the Spartans in LEC Tournament quarterfinals last season.

In his 11th season leading the charge, head coach John O'Connor returns firepower across the field with fabulous new additions making their collegiate debuts. 2022 All-LEC Second Team selection Matt Spiller and 2021 LEC Rookie of the Year Adolphe Alfani are proven talents in the attacking zone. An experienced midfield is led by returning starters Stanley Andersen and Michael O'Connor, while the back line is anchored by seniors Lucas McCane and Seth Gagnon.

Between the posts, veterans Andres Soto-Burgos and JP Maul are expected to continue splitting goalkeeping duties. As the primary starter, Soto-Burgos was a two-time LEC Goalie of the Week a season ago with 98 saves and two clean sheets. Maul earned five starts, including one Goalie of the Week accolade, a shutout, and a 15-save performance against Salem State (10/4).

The Spartans seek their third LEC postseason berth since joining the league in 2018, hoping to get past the quarterfinal round for the first time.