Aug. 13, 2009

COLUMBIA, S.C. – The University of South Carolina men’s soccer team began its preseason camp for the upcoming 2009 season today at the practice fields on campus in Columbia. The Gamecocks battled rainy conditions throughout much of the morning practice session.

South Carolina returns a strong group of veterans to the field in 2009, while welcoming four newcomers to the squad. Gamecock head coach Mark Berson was pleased with the fitness level of his team on the first day of camp and thought the first practice went well despite the rain.

Redshirt-freshman Daniel Lynch talked to GamecocksOnline.com on the first day of preseason camp. “I thought everyone had a rhythm at our first practice session,” Lynch said. “The fitness level was very strong.”

Junior forward Sam Arthur is excited to be back on the field with his teammates. “I was glad to get back on the field with the rest of the team. We have a lot of guys returning from last year, so we should have great chemistry,” Arthur commented. “We’re just excited for the season to start.”

“It rained a little, but the intensity was really high,” freshman defender Kevin Stam mentioned.

South Carolina returns to the practice fields this evening, and continues preseason camp through the middle of next week prior to the start of classes. Continue to visit GamecocksOnline.com for updates.