July 20, 2000

Release: Upon Request

FURMAN MEN'S SOCCER RANKED FIFTH IN NSCAA PRESEASON POLL

GREENVILLE, SC -- The Furman men's soccer team is ranked fifth in the nation in the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) preseason poll released this week.

Furman concluded the 1999 season ranked fifth in the NSCAA poll and third in the Soccer America rankings. The Paladins advanced to the quarterfinals of the NCAA Tournament after defeating North Carolina and Wake Forest in the first two rounds.

Despite the loss of several talented seniors, Furman returns an exceptional nucleus and has its hopes set high for another record setting season. Among those returning are first team All American forward John Barry Nusum and second team All American Matt Goldsmith. Nusum led the team with 17 goals and nine assists last season.

"It is an honor to be ranked in the top five before the season starts," said Furman head coach Doug Allison. "The key will be where are we ranked when the season ends. I have high hopes for this team. We have to put last seasons' success behind us and understand that this a new season with new challenges."

In addition to Nusum and Goldsmith, Furman will count on captains Carl Junot and Scott Blount for leadership. The Paladins also have a strong freshman class arriving on campus in three weeks, headlined by McNeil Cronin, Sergei Raad, and Patrick Tanner.

For more information, contact: Chris Colvin (864) 294-2375