THOMASVILLE — Thomas University’s Men’s Soccer (5-0-2) (TSC 0-0) make history as they are nationally ranked No. 2 in the first regular-season edition of the 2014 NAIA Men’s Soccer Coaches’ Top 25 poll. Thomas climbed the ladder 16 spots, which is the second largest jump within the poll as they earn 558 points and three first-place nods.
The Nights Hawks opened their season defeating No. 14 William Carey in a 2-1 upset, followed by a 1-0 shutout over No. 16 Georgia Gwinnett College. Thomas locked in another “W” as they outmatched No. 1 and defending NAIA National Champion Martin Methodist 3-1 in week three’s featured game of the week. Continuing to remain dominant, TU edged out a 4-3 victory over No. 22 Bethel (Tenn.). Thomas earned the No. 2 ranking this week, courtesy of these four Top 25 wins.
Men’s Soccer is the first team in school history to be ranked in the top 5 since Thomas University Women’s Softball was ranked No. 1 in May of 2005. No. 2 Thomas University is also the first team in The Sun Conference (TSC) to be nationally ranked within the top 5 since Embry-Riddle University was ranked No. 3 on September 14, 2010. Thomas secures their highest ranking since September 2012 when they were nationally ranked 14th, as well as they boast their highest ranking in school history. The Night Hawks continue to build on their success as they have been ranked amongst the Top 25 teams in the nation for the last 8 straight polls.
TU is currently riding on their longest unbeaten streak (11) in school history, dating back to October 30, 2013. Thomas holds the longest active unbeaten record after diminishing Martin Methodist’s 15 game run; as well as, they are unbeaten in 23 of their last 24 games. The Night Hawks are one of six teams left in the nation to hold an undefeated 2014 season.
“We are happy to see the guys recognized for a lot of hard work. This is also a tribute to a lot of guys who have worked hard throughout the years to make TU one of the top programs in the country,” said Head TU Men’s Soccer Coach, Ricky Zambrano. “However, at this point all that is important and on our minds is our Sun Conference opener on Thursday at Ave Maria.”
The Night Hawks look to defend their Conference Title as they begin conference play Thursday, September 25th when they travel to Ave Maria to take on the Gyrenes at 6:00 P.M.
