Men's Soccer Opens 50th Anniversary Celebration
5/19/2023 10:10:00 PM | Men's Soccer
Friday kicked off the Indiana men's soccer celebration as the program welcomed back alumni and distinguished guests back to Bloomington.
The celebration began around lunchtime as 80 Hoosiers competed in golf foursomes at the Pfau Course in an outing organized by the I Association. The announced winner was the quartet of Grant Lillard (2014-17), Christian Lomeli (2015-16), Jay Nolly (2001-04) and Alec Purdie (2008-11), who collectively shot 9-under 62.
In the evening, the golfers met up with about 170 more members of the IU soccer family at the IU Auditorium for a reception. Spirits were high as teammates, coaches and friends reunited over refreshments in the grand foyer. Then, everyone moved into the theater for a short program.
WGCL radio personality and former IU men's soccer public address announcer Mike Glasscott and the Big Ten Network's Dean Linke emceed the proceedings, and the audience heard from IU deputy director of athletics Stephen Harper, as well as Brian Brase, Juergen Sommer (1987-90) and Paul "Whitey" Kapsalis (1984, 1986-87) from the I Association, Pat McGauley (1979-81, 1983) and IU current assistant coaching staff.
Everyone was formally welcomed by Todd and Jerry Yeagley.
"All of you," Jerry Yeagley told the crowd, "whether you were a player, coach, academic counselor, manager, whatever way - you were a part of that Tradition of Excellence that we're all so proud of. Thank you."
During the program, Indiana men's soccer announced the winner of its very first Alumni Star Award, Gary Fresen. The Alumni Star Award is presented to a former Indiana men's soccer player who, as an alumnus, has made significant contributions through continued support and service to the program. This individual is dedicated to ensuring that Tradition of Excellence remains a hallmark of the IU men's soccer program.
Saturday is a busy day for members of the IU men's soccer family, beginning with breakfast at the Indiana Memorial Union and ending with the 50-Year Celebration Reception and Dinner.