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By Mike Anderson, NKU Sports Information MISSION, Kan. – It only took 19 months for another Northern Kentucky University program to ascend to No. 1 in the nation. The NKU men’s soccer team, off to a school-record 12-0 start, has been selected as the top team in the NCAA Division II national poll, as released by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America on Tuesday. It is the first time in school history the men’s soccer program has attained the No. 1 ranking. The honor comes after head coach John Basalyga’s 91st game at the helm of the NKU men’s soccer team. Basalyga joined the Norse in 2003, leading the team to a 4-9-3 record over that span. Since then, the team has consistently improved, finishing ranked No. 17 after the 2004 campaign, No. 12 following 2005, and No. 7 last year, when the Norse captured the Great Lakes Region championship. After beginning the 2007 season at No. 8, NKU has steadily climbed the poll week-after-week. A 1-0 double-overtime decision over No. 15 Southern Illinois at Edwardsville followed by a 1-0 win against Quincy, combined with a loss by then-No. 1 Lynn (Fla.), gave the Norse the nod for the top spot in the poll. NKU athletic director Jane Meier marked the honor as a moment of pride for the institution. “This recognition is a testament to the tremendous effort of our student-athletes and of John and his staff,” she noted, “but I know they are not satisfied with just this ranking, and will continue their hard work through the rest of the season.” The defense continues to be the key to NKU’s success, and not just in the net. While the goalkeeping platoon of senior Andy Ortman and freshman Michael Lavric has combined for nine shutouts on the season, credit must also be given to the Norse backfield. Seniors Andy Bacon and Dan Impellizzeri, junior Eric Ashworth and sophomore Alex Allison have kept opposing strikers at bay, allowing just over six shot attempts per game. Basalyga has been impressed by the defensive teamwork the Norse have shown, as well. “It’s great for our kids. It’s all about them committing to this team and working together towards something special,” he said. Braden Bishop continues to provide timely offense for the Norse, leading the team with eight goals, including the game-winning penalty kick conversion over SIUE. The work isn’t over, however, as the Norse prepare for conference matches against Indianapolis and Saint Joseph’s. “I can’t wait to see the guys in practice today,” quipped Basalyga. “We’ll all have smiles on our faces.” After a moment of pause, he added, “well, until we start running, anyway.” On March 9, 2005, NKU’s softball team reached the nation’s top spot en route to an NCAA record 55 consecutive wins, marking the last NKU team to earn a No. 1 national ranking. |
